Articles
Six Quick Tips
to Improve Behavior
These strategies work best for children 2-7 years old, but can be generalized to older children.
RULES |
Establishes your expectations of the behavior you want from your child. Can also be useful in setting rewards and consequences. | “There are two rules to going to the store: one is to stay by my side and the other is to keep your hands to yourself. If you break the rules, then we will leave the store or if you follow the rules you will earn a treat.” |
REDIRECT |
Gets your child to focus on another toy, activity or behavior without use of strict discipline. | If your child wants another child’s toy, you can redirect him/her by showing a different yet equally fun toy. “Wow, I have a space station. It is really fun to get the rockets ready for blast-off.” |
TRANSITIONS |
Provides an opportunity to prepare your child for a change. Allows him/her time to complete the current activity. | “In one more minute it will be my turn to play with the Legos.” “At the end of this T.V. program, it will be time for bed.” |
WHEN-THEN OR IF-THEN STATEMENTS |
You can use this phrase as a prompt to describe the behavior you’re expecting as well as what will happen when your child complies. It’s a great motivation tool to gain compliance. | “When Nancy puts the toy in the box, then I can/will give her a sticker.” “When Anthony uses his polite voice, then I can listen to him.” “When the Legos are put away, then you can watch your video. |
VERBAL PROMPT |
Clearly describes to your child what behavior is expected. | “I am putting my toys away gently.” “I am going to slow down and think about what to do next.” |
CHOICES |
Allows your child to feel like he/she has some control and to feel important. Teaches your child how to make appropriate choices. |
“You have two choices...you can play with the Legos or Mr. Potato Head.” “You have a choice. You can play with the toys on the table or you can sit back and relax.” “You can eat an apple or a banana.” |