Ignore misbehavior whenever possible – especially attention seeking misbehaviors
like: whining, complaining, moping or “water power.”
Two potential problems with ignoring –
- Child may raise the ante – the misbehavior gets worse before it gets better.
- Child may also become aggressive to force attention from the parent. You can give a time out or take away a privilege for kicking or hitting. Stay calm. Use neutral, disinterested tone of voice
Build the foundation for positive behavior – Each day give 20 minutes of uninterrupted, quality attention to each child:
- Be “present” Put aside your behavior goals
- Put aside your own “agenda” Take delight in your child
- Be interested in your child — relax, enjoy, listen, watch, describe
