child over shadowed by cousin loosing self esteemed

[aniqa]

help!!

I think i am loosing it, i have a 4 year old boy who is behaving oddly. He has a older cousin and is completely mesmerized by him in fact when this boy is around he does not play with anybody and hits if someone try to play with him. He also hugs and hold this boy who is 11 months older then him. this cousin is very selfish and doesn

[aniqa]

Thank you , i think i will make mnore play dates with his play,mates from playgroup this problem has aggrevated sine summer holidays i think you guys are right he is normal with his other play group buddies

[Cleveland Mom]

Your son is very young in the scheme of things and is still developing social skills.  I wouldn't be too worried about this.  I agree with the suggestion about making certain he is exposed to a variety of kids i.e. day care, preschool, family, neighbors, play groups etc.  All kids mature at different paces in terms of social skills just as they do in other types of skills like speaking and physical skills.  This is likely a phase.  Best wishes...

[koukla29]

Is your son in daycare?  If you can, try to get him into situations where he is able to play with different children.  Watch his interactions in the different situations.  Children have a problem understanding the sharing concept at a young age.  You can buy books on sharing and read to both children.  Ask them to show you how they share.