But my 4-year-old acts like an angsty teen with a chip on his shoulder (minus the acne and body odor). I often feel verbally abused, manipulated, and not cool enough for him — and I'm a grown-up. Normal 4-year-old behaviorThey don't call it the "F-you 4s" for nothing, Alanna Gallo, an education and parenting expert and the founder of Play Learn Thrive, said. Red flags parents should look forWhile most of this behavior is normal, albeit frustrating, there is a point where you may need outside help. And don't worry, my 4-year-old doesn't actually hate me, and he'll stop calling me a "booty butt" — eventually.

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