anxiety in 5 year olds

[Annoula2121]

My 5 year old son just couple of days ago started showing signs of 'ocd ' (touching something too many times with hands or feet, pulling his t-shirt down because it's bothering him around the neck, tapping with his foot on the ground while walking, etc).  One of the stressors may be his extreme jealousy of his younger sibling, or my constant reminders to play nicely, both with his borther and other kids.  He has a tendency not to keep hands to himself...Otherwise, he is out of kindergarten for the summer (where academically he does fairly well), so he tends to have pretty relaxed days (apart from swimming lessons on most aftrenoons).  Both me and my husband are prone to anxiety but have never been diagnosed or on meds.

[Annoula2121]

yes, we are planning on going to our family doctor first with this.  I believe in his case it's a combination of both , fear and sensitivity.  I notice it happens whenever I lose my patience with him and my voice becomes somewhat harsh.  We are going through a phase of testing the limits... not listening the first time..and needing reminders to follow the rules...so it's a challenge to keep calm, composed yet firm.

[specialmom]

I just want to say that often children do react for a reason and it is best to run things by your physician.  For example, my child has sensory integration disorder and does some of these same things.  They are not ocd at all but his trying to cope with his sensory issues.  An occupational therapist treats for sensory with work on the nervous system.  good luck

By the way, my child's issues with clothing went away quite quickly through occupational therapy.  He has other sensory issues that we work on but those in the area of tactile dysfunction are significantly better.  

[kaylagween]

I would start talking to a therapist, OCD is easiest stop early on.  Its good that you recognize that these are signs of OCD.  the reason children do do these "rituals" is because they fear if they don't something bad will happen

I would try and talk to him about some of the things that scare him.  and help him get through them ( with good timing).  with out treatment, it gets worse and the fears get larger, it becomes a part of everything the do (daily routine) and is then harder to get rid of.

I would see a therapist, as soon as I could, they are very helpful

[Annoula2121]

Thank you for your replies. Will definitely google sensory itegration disorder and tactile defensiveness.  And yes, the tags are cut, and tank tops seem to work the best.  All good suggestions actually, will definitely focus on sports and his other interests.  I appreciate your support.

[specialmom]

Hi, agree with Margypops.  Also will suggest that you look up sensory itegration disorder and tactile defensiveness.  All kids (and adults for that matter) have sensory issues but it becomes a disorder if a child can not cope.  Google it and see what you think.  My son is picky about clothing and I take his concerns to heart.  Who wants something itching your neck?  Find some shirts that work and cut out the tags.  Good luck

[margypops]

Do you think you could possibly be focused on the small iritating things children do,and yes I think you have hit the nail on the head regarding any jealousy, would you say you pay the younger child more attention than him, it is very hard on children when a baby and younger child comes along and their place is usurped, they were used to all your attention now it had to be shared and in a lot of cases given up as a baby and younger sibling has obviously to be cared for more .My opinion and suggestion to you is to focus on his positive side, ignore the little foibles that can irritate, get his Dad playing sports ,ball games giving him one to one time , make him feel special again ...he is feeling left out, walk in his shoes ...good luck