Baby/Toddler habits a reflection on later life?

[JordieC]

After attending mothers group yesterday I am curious to whether how the kids act now is the way they will be when at school and older? I know of course they learn many things but are lots of their behaviours simply phases or really a true "crystal ball" into the future?

When in groups Mackenzie os often more quiet and reserved at the start and after warming up will show her personality. In saying that she never totally comes out of her shell at mothers group because there are so many other kids who are walking and loud and more "obvious" in their behaviour.

Does this mean that's what it will be like when she goes to kinder? She's certainly not shy but I would hate to think that when she's older she still won't stand-out because other kids actions and behaviours seem to outshine her. I'm not overly worried - more curious! MAckenzie is always learning new things but because she's smaller and quieter those things are't seen as much as her more outgoing friends.

I'm also wondering if the kids who are bossy and somewhat aggressive will continue down that path? Just curious - anyone who has older kids notice this?

[queenbee]

I am interested in this thread. My DD is reserved also at Mums Group until she gets used to others but she never really comes out of her shell completely as other kids are around also. She is quite moody at the moment, hoping it doesn't last! Will watch this thread closely, seems like a very interesting question!

[Snacks]

Far out, I hope not. DD is so very highly strung around other children (when I am there too at any rate. They tell me she is ok at childcare, just 'uncertain' in larger groups) sometimes it is really difficult. Like last Tuesday's playgroup - whenever another child came near her she would cry.
I'm not holding out much hope that it isn't an indication of her future personality though. I do see a lot of myself in her. She is reserved, likes her own space, enjoys the company of others as long as its on her terms. (I sound like a total b!tch now ) But whereas I have learned to curb my more antisocial tendencies where I can, and try to be more sociable even when I don't feel like it, she hasn't learned that just yet so it is more obvious with her.
She doesn't smile at people unless she really wants to, or unless she feels very comfortable with them. Aparently I was the same... All interesting to think about for sure, and it is something I think about a lot. I wonder if my next will have a more outgoing, extroverted personality like DH...

[amberj]

I don't know the answer, but I *suspect* that the personalities our bubs display now are indicators for the future. Of course, there is the whole nature/nurture thing, but I do believe we have in-built personality tendancies.

Snacks I had to laugh when I read your post because I am so much the same- total introvert through and through. I love people but find them sooooooo draining!! (Have you read a book called "The Introvert Advantage"? Awesome book) I know I was always like this even as a baby- sensitive and clingy. Sadly my mum didn't know how to deal with it very well.

I recently read a book called "The Highly Sensitive Person" which seems to say that studies show that people who are sensitive later in life tend to display those qualities right from birth and are more easily overwhelmed- which suggests we do display our personality tendancies right from the start. For those of you with sensitive kids, there is also a book called "The Highly Sensitive Child" (Elain Aron or Anon or something), which is also really good.

Peter seems pretty placid and laid back like his dad, and I can't help but be grateful, I just think like might be a little easier for him!

[Visitor8]

I don't know but I think that blending in is a good quality. It should get her far without too much drama. I blended in and got along well with everyone. My sister however was out there and she got picked on so much!

[christy]

I've always preferred the "quirky" side of life... I don't "fit in" and I guess I haven't had any desire too either.

Apparently as a toddler, I used to line up my dolls and tell them off. I would practice being a teacher and tell everyone we they were supposed to do and how to do it. I was nicknamed Miss Bossy Boots....

Now I don't know if I'm Miss Bossy Boots still.... I was quite a silent achiever as I grew up. I wasn't really the leader or anything with my friends... I don't think so.

[Ca Plane Pour Moi]

I have always been quiet, shy and imaginative. I've lived in my own world and ignored other people.

I think I've been loud enough on BB for you to get a feel for my personality and tell me if that's still true! It was until I left home because my parents kept me in that pigeonhole and there was no escape. Now I can change and develop because there are no expectations of me.