kid's things? tricks?

[englishhobby]

What's the right word for things naughty little children (4-5 years old) do when they misbehave? For example, which word do we need to complete the following sentence?
His mother has no peace because of his ...?

 

[Raymott]

misbehaviour; playing up.... But we might need a new term, say "postmodern shenanigans".

Let's see. Four years old. He should by then be questioning his sex and gender identity, playing doctors and nurses, masturbating. The WHO suggests that these all be taught in sex education as positive formative experiences for this age group in Europe - as per another current thread (WHO sex-ed guidelines).

 

[englishhobby]

Thanks, but I just need a very simple and very common word for an exercise for students. I feel it should be in the plural. Something like 'tricks'. 'Misbehaviour' is a bit too formal. 'Playing up' is okay, but I still hope there is something short and plural like I've described. :?:

 

[emsr2d2]

I can't speak for any other variant of English, but BrE doesn't have a "simple and very common plural word" that covers it.

 

[Barb_D]

... his antics.
... his mischief.

 

[englishhobby]

Thanks to everyone. I'll use the suggested words. It was silly of me to try to find an equivalent in the same form as in my language (by the way, 'antics' is the closest).

 

[Skrej]

My mother always referred to my 'stunts', when I did something I shouldn't have.


Antics, shenanigans, capers, mischief, escapades, high jinks, monkey business, monkeyshines, tricks, and tomfoolery all work.

 

[andrewg927]

I use "fits" with my kids. Lots and lots "fits".

 

[Rover_KE]

I like 'mischief' or 'naughtiness'.

Aren't 'fits' a medical condition?

 

[emsr2d2]

I like all the suggestions but they all seem to describe fairly minor naughtiness. I had been trying to think of something for more serious misbehaviour but I had missed the fact that the OP had specified children of 4-5 years of age.

 

[Barb_D]

Shenanigans - that's my favorite so far.

 

[andrewg927]

I like 'mischief' or 'naughtiness'.

Aren't 'fits' a medical condition?

Yes and you know what it is like when a kid throws a fit.