is my stepson a danger to other kids

My stepson is only 3 yrs. old.  Everyday he will attack and pushdown other small children he is playing with.  It wouldnt be so bad but he does it alot of times when they are in a postion to be hurt such as on steps or any other high area such as a hill etc.  He waits until nobody is looking and will push them.  He also will attack them for no reason he rushes past them and scratches them or pulls their hair.  The worst thing he has done he will get a heavy object and sneak up on one of the kids and  bash them over the head.  He tried this with a heavy rock a few days ago thank goodness the child ran before he could hit her in the head.  He wont play with toys he watches the other kids and waits until they put a toy down then he takes it runs off with it and hides it or throws it.  Then he comes back and does it again.  He refuses to learn to count or his abc's or learn his colors.  When he does try he doesnt get it.  He is not potty trained all the way he still will pee or poop in his pants and doesnt seem to care.  He cries in his sleep and wakes up crying several times a night.  What is wrong?  Thanks

[Jason C Bourret, Ph.D., BCBA-D]

Based on what you describe, your stepson’s behavior can absolutely be dangerous. If he is emitting the intensity of aggression that you describe, he should be monitored closely around other children to make sure that he doesn’t hurt one of them. I would recommend beginning your stepson in the process of assessment to identify any medical issues and to get him on track to receiving early intervention if appropriate. The behavior you describe is treatable but can be quite dangerous for other small children. This should be addressed directly right away. I highly recommend that you seek out a behavior analyst in your area with experience working with children like your stepson. Again, behavior problems of this sort are treatable but acting soon is important, particularly given the fact that his aggression has the potential to cause serious injury.