Do you think he might be experimenting with his feelings and actions? Have you asked him why he pushed? Sometimes 2.5 yo's (and older, believe me!) need help remembering how to express themselves using their words.

And sometimes even if they have the words, using their words doesn't work and they get frustrated and act out. In past instances when DS has hit or pushed out of frustration, I remind him that if using his words isn't working, to come and get me for help. I don't feel I am teaching him to "dob in" but if the situation is getting out of control to ask for help, rather than get physical.

Oh, in case I am making an assumption everyone knows what I mean by "using your words", I mean teaching them to say "Stop, I don't like that".

At 2.5yo, the number one thing you have to do is just be there all the time supervising. They do get it eventually.

Rachael