Is it possible for a 5-yr old to talk TOO much?

[NickB79]

From an early age, I've encouraged my daughter to use her words as much as possible when she needs to communicate. I've read many hundreds of books to her since she was a baby. I talk to her about almost anything, especially anything science-related since my degree is in biochemistry. My original plan before becoming a lab tech was to become a science teacher, so I love her constant curiosity and inquisitiveness.

Here's the problem: my wife is much more introverted than I am, and doesn't talk nearly as much, even in social gatherings with friends. Her idea of a fun afternoon/evening is a quiet house and a good book.

This is causing a considerable amount of stress in our house, because our daughter is at that age where everything piques her curiosity. When I'm at work, she's constantly peppering Mommy with questions, to the point that my wife will frequently leave for work early just to get some quiet time, or retreat to the bedroom as soon as I come through the front door. More often, she's losing her temper and snapping at her.

I've talked to our daughter about giving Mommy some quiet time to herself while she builds her Legos, plays some video games, colors, etc, but this has had the effect of making me the favored parent and causing more conflict.

Anyone have some suggestions? I don't think my wife will change her behavior anytime soon, so that leaves only myself and our daughter to work with.

[elleng]

1. Be the best parent you can,

let your daughter know you appreciate her curiosity, remind her occasionally of her mother's desire for 'quiet time,' and play the situation down. Personalities are what they are.

Your 5 year old doesn't talk too much, but will learn/recognize the difference between her parents' personalities. You WILL be the favored parent, because your the father AND because of your personality; that's life. If your wife doesn't like it, it's up to her to try to change her approach to your daughter.

AND, I concluded years ago (daughters are 27 and 30,) it's never too late to correct a mistake.

Good luck! Have fun!

[aswanson]

2. Quiet time and be careful!

First off--I would say be careful and be sure that your five year old can't hear you getting tired out with all the talking. Why don't you introduce a quiet hour? Say that she has to play quietly by herself for a bit. It'll be good for her to know how to entertain herself! I've also seen parents just stick an ipad with their kids for a break--but I don't know that I agree with that.

[LauraNb]

3. It does sometimes feel like that...

but it really is just a phase so I'd say that yes it's tough, but it won't be long until she's a moddy teenager and you'll be wishing for the days when she didn't shut up

It it hard to deal with when they are constantly talking at you but maybe she's talking non-stop because she's not getting anything back? Children are little sponges and soak up any kind of atmosphere so it could be that she's trying to fill the silence. But maybe have your wife explain to her that she needs to have just a few minutes of quiet time and look at a book with her or something.

[Mancshell]

4. Can a child talk to much

I don't think a kid can talk to much, and it's great if they have good communication, ask my children had speech delays, 2 of which have autism and adhd dyspraxia, and maybe a third, they all had therapy, never think your child can talk to much be proud