Is my 5-year-old just going through an OCD phase?

Question

My 5-year-old daughter, over the past few months, has been acting obsessive-compulsive about some things: fussing that her chair at the dinner table has to be just right (pushing it in and out, making minor corrections to its orientation to the table); demanding that her cereal or oatmeal be flat "like a pie" (big Froot Loops won't lay flat like Rice Krispies, so she threw a fit); and refusing to get into bed until her blanket is laid out perfectly smooth and flat, with her little pillow in the exact center of the big pillow.

Is this just an anal-retentive phase she's going through, or could she possibly be exhibiting signs of OCD?  (I realize no one can diagnose this over the Net, but are there additional signs or symptoms I should look for?)

? · Accepted Answer

It doesn't sound abnormal to me, I think it's a phase kids go through where they want to have as much control over their lives as possible.  Since they can't control the big things they want to control the little things.  I remember when I was about that age I had just learned to tie my shoes and I was absolutely determined that they should be the exact same tightness on both feet.  I would stop what was doing and retie them whenever one started to loosen up.  For a while it was a really big deal to me, but I eventually moved on and stopped noticing it.  I think your little girl is perfectly normal, don't worry :)

Anonymous · Answer

Has there been something going on in her life that's a change?  A new baby, a new house or school?  A divorce?  Sometimes kids see that they have no control over things that happen in their lives, so they start to be overly concerned with the little things they can control like blankets and cereal.  

I would try to find out if something is causing her anxiety.  My friend's little girl is 6 and has behaviors like this.  Her dad is not around regularly and sees her when it's convenient for him and her mom got remarried and had a new baby all within the last year.  She is a troubled child who demands control over the littlest things.

adjsas · Answer

Sounds exactly like my 3yr old. He's such a fuss pot about the silliest things.... It drives me bonkers.
My friend's little boy is about the same age.... its normal. Unfortunately

Rachael B · Answer

can i ask you a question are you abit like that with things?
my kids have picked up on the fact that i dont eat bread or any other food on or over its due by date so now they always say is it in date!

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Is my 5-year-old just going through an OCD phase?

4 Answers