There could be a lot of reasons for your kid’s bad behavior. Shunning or grounding them every time for their negative behavior will provoke them more, making this difficult for everyone. You must have tried every possible way, almost every formula, to get your child back on track and improve their behavior. However, if nothing has worked, try these tricks; they might be the solution you are looking for.
1. Try to connect with your kid
Often, kids opt for bad behavior to seek attention from their parents, especially if they feel unheard or unloved. So, no matter how busy you are with your housework or office, make it a point to devote some time to your children and tell them you love them as often as possible.
By devoting time, we don’t mean just asking your kiddos how their day was. Instead, play games with them, talk to them about their interests, take them out, laugh with them, do things together, etc. The more you spend time with your child and say positive affirmations, the more they will open up with you and tell you about what is upsetting them while trying to change their behavior.
2. Negotiate
Sometimes, it’s best to negotiate with your children to make things easier for both of you. Always think about your kid’s interest while negotiating. For instance, if your child wants more screen time, you should first consider whether it is because they are watching a fascinating documentary or simply because the show is entertaining.
If it’s the first, allow them to watch TV for a little longer by telling them they can watch it for another 15 minutes and no more. If it’s purely for entertainment purposes, give them better options to choose from. When you provide better options than the existing ones, kids are more likely to comply with them. Plus, it makes them feel they have the power to choose (and who doesn’t appreciate that).
3. Give them tasks when they ask
Kids often misbehave when they feel they are getting the baby treatment. Not getting challenging tasks or not being asked about their opinions on a matter irks them. So, try to involve your kids while making family decisions, ask for their views, and discuss the pros and cons of their opinions. This will make your child feel important.
Also, do not hesitate to give your kids some important tasks. Give them the proper instructions and let your child handle them (making sure they are not risky for their age), like typing your email, posting mail, helping you build furniture (don’t let them handle the hammer and nails till they are a teenager), etc. These small things will make your child feel trusted and respected, something every child wants, regardless of age.
4. Tread carefully with words
What you say to your kids significantly impacts them, especially during their sensitive time. Hence, be mindful of what you say and how you say it. This may not be possible every time they cross the line. However, hold yourself from uttering something that will dishearten your child, prompting them to continue their bad behavior.
For instance, if you see your child fighting with their sibling, do not shout or yell at them in front of others. Instead, take them somewhere quiet, sit with them, and ask them the reason for their bad behavior. Once you know the reason, help them by guiding them in the right direction. The more you calmly communicate with your child, the more they will listen to and understand you, and they might even share their problems with you.
5. Teach your child to deal with their emotions
Kids absorb what they see. If they see their friends or family members negatively dealing with their emotions, they will do the same. Thus, it is imperative to tell kids how to deal with their emotions better by painting, discussing it with elders, etc.
So, mommies, implement these practices next time you have to deal with your kid’s bad behavior and see if they help your kid. And remember to share your experience with us in the comment section below.
