Unique Child Behaviors: Scissor Skills, Unusual Hobbies, and More

Every child has unique behaviors that make them special. Some of these behaviors may be a bit unusual, while others might simply be quirks that reflect their creativity and individuality. Here are a couple of fascinating instances of uncommon child behaviors shared by parents, along with insights into how these traits might develop into unique talents or interests.

Left-Handed Scissor Cutting and Food Fears

My daughter demonstrates a unique ability to use scissors with her left hand, positioning the blades upward. This might be seen as a minor detail but could potentially influence how she sees herself and her abilities. She also exhibits an unusual aversion to cherries and strawberries. Despite having the stems and leaves removed by me, she refuses to eat them, even a strawberry milk shake, due to her fear of the lingering plant parts. This behavior could be attributed to a general sensory aversion or an instance of selective eating, which is quite common among children. Interestingly, she is also lactose intolerant, making it difficult for her to consume dairy products.

Rocking and Humming from an Early Age

My oldest child, now almost 50, started rocking back and forth as a baby, a behavior that continued into his childhood. This rocking habit caused significant issues with his crib, eventually leading to a small bed frame being constructed to fit his mattress. While this activity seemed harmless at first, he became stronger and started banging his head, though he never injured himself. This rhythmic motion also includes humming and singing, which might indicate an early connection to music and rhythm. Despite the potential risks of this behavior, he turned out to be an artist, musician, and an intelligent person. This ability to concentrate on rhythmic motions might have contributed to his interests in music and art. Furthermore, it's possible that he was developing a rhythm in his mind, perhaps even writing music subconsciously from a young age.

Clock Obsession and Interests in Time

Another unique character trait that stands out is my son's love for clocks, which began when he turned four. His father received a watch for his birthday, and my son expressed a desire to be just like his dad. Initially, we told him that he could have a watch for his next birthday or Christmas if he learned to tell time on an analog clock. Two weeks later, I was shopping for a watch, and his interest in timepieces had already manifested into a fascination with different types of clocks, their parts, chime tunes, and even famous clocks like London's Big Ben, which, he would correct if you mistakenly called it the clock itself (it's actually the bell in the Elizabeth Tower).

This obsession with clocks has led him to develop a passion for learning to play the piano and even taught himself several songs, including "Fur Elise" and "Ode to Joy." He has also utilized his knowledge of clocks to enhance his math skills, especially with concepts like skip counting, and has improved his drawing and printing abilities. Most children his age (8) are unable to read an analog clock, let alone understand the intricacies of different types of clocks.

Conclusion

These stories showcase the unique behaviors that many children exhibit, which can often be both quirky and endearing. Understanding and embracing these behaviors can help in nurturing a child's individual strengths and interests. Whether it's a fondness for clocks, a preference for using the left hand, or an unusual habit of rocking, parents can find ways to support and encourage their children's natural inclinations into mature and constructive directions.