Three-Year-Old Repeating the Same Phrase Over and Over
My three-year-old (though almost four) has been saying the phrase "I'm not gonna say that" every minute or two for about a week now.
A few months ago he started occasionally saying this phrase, and when we asked what he meant he didn't have any answer. Once he said that he was thinking of something he didn't know how to say, but other than that he just seems to repeat it mindlessly.
As mentioned above over the past week it has increased exponentially, even to the point where he just mutters it to himself when no one is around, or interrupts other activities or conversations to interject and say it.
For awhile I tried to respond saying "Whatever you are thinking, I would love to hear it," or "You can tell us anything that you are thinking about," but he never responded to any of that. I tried ignoring it as well but it is becoming increasingly impossible given the frequency.
Has anyone experienced anything similar to this or have any ideas how to help figure out what he means or to help him relax/get over this?
Any help is appreciated.