I know this scenario all too well. UGH SS8 has never had anyone that didn't think he was absolutely adorable and charming all the time. He wasn't used to not amusing all adults with his charms and being told 'that's enough" SO even said "he's just not used to that" meaning used to adults being irritated by him.

Apparently the child psychologist said it's fine to address the behavior like you would if the kid were your own kid. Address the behavior and not the "whys" behind it. Also after say something like "what i'd like to see happen now is (xyz)"

That sucks and is super annoying that you might be the first taste of reality outside of being worshiped for this child.

Good luck

its SOOO annoying. My SD10 is only recently starting to out grow that crap, but I feel ya. I would have higher expectations of my own kids than that.

Well, no, not the worst person ever...it is annoying to be expected to fawn over a child who is use to having everyone around here totally adore her and melt and/or laugh at 'oh how cute and clever' child is.

That said however, no need to over-react or go nuts over something as a child's childishly silly attempt to be 'special'. I think I might go with a more direct approach when she does this rather than let too much annoyance built. As you said, it's not really fair to a five year old to let them clearly know how much they are thought to 'absolutely horrid' by DH's wife.

A simple "SD I'm not playing the 'I don't know' game with you, you're way to big to pretend you don't know something when we know you do. You don't do that at school when the teacher says something to you", or "That's not funny and I'm not going to ask you questions and talk until you stop playing, I'd like an actual answer please'.

The 'I don't know (giggle giggle)' is a stage and she's thinks it's funny and fun. it'll pass. In the meantime merely let her know you're not playing the game with her.

My ss 11 if in trouble in school or whatever will say "I don't know" eugh

Everyone is right, it's probably a stage. My SD8 has been in this stage the whole 2 years I've known her but it is less frequent now. Although just as annoying, if not more so.

When my SD8 does it now, my return comment is always something along the line of "How old are you, 3?" Since SD8 wants to be treated like a big girl, my question usually offends her enough she snaps out if it.