Reply to 3 yo can't entertain himself for even 2-5 minutes

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[quote=Anonymous]It's obvious that he is capable of it, but chooses not to. He is seeking attention. Many first borns who are used to one on one care do not develop this skill (entertaining themselves alone for 3+ minutes) until they are over two. It sounds like by the time he was two he already had a sibling, and was likely dealing with jealousy and attention issues at that point. So, it was never in his own interest (or so it seems to him) to play alone, because he was constantly vying for adult attention. I'm not sure there is an easy answer here, but I think it's important to understand that he CAN do it, he just is choosing not to.

Are there times when his brother is out of the picture (napping, presumably) when you are there? I might try something like, set him up with an activity (coloring, play dough, etc), then tell him you have to go do a boring adult chore (dishes, laundry, whatever) in the next room. When he comes into the next room, say "I am busy now," and walk him right back to his activity. Keep talking to the bare minimum; don't engage with him. No matter how many times he comes in, continue walking him back to his activity, and reiterate that you are busy. Aim for the first day or two to get him to play by himself for three minutes, then build up to five, ten, maybe fifteen minutes. It may take a few frustrating days, but I think eventually he will get the idea.

It's best to do this when little brother isn't around, because if he sees you spending time with little brother he will feel jealous/neglected (or if little brother is playing by himself, too, he would be an easy target for big brothers frustration).

Good luck.[/quote]

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