Managing Misbehaviour

Some key learnings for me.

• A rule is only effective if it is followed through.
• Consequences need to be consistent and you need to support one another
• Using methods such as quiet time and time-out to deal with misbehaviour are more appropriate and effective rather than spanking.
• The idea with consequences is for the child to follow instruction and not to use these methods as forms of threat.

Below is my action plan

Over the weekend, we will discuss the four ground rules as per below.

1. We ask calmly.
2. We walk inside the house.
3. We do not interrupt conversation but we say excuse me.
4. We say our feelings and we ask for help.

Choose one or two strategies you particularly want to try out with your child and set a clear goal about using them.

• directed discussion
• clear, calm instructions

Make a time to talk to your child about your new strategies before you use them. If possible, start using your new strategies on a day when you are likely to be at home and when you don’t have any time pressures or other things you need to do.

Start using your reward chart.

This is a good time to start using your reward chart now that you have some consequences in mind if you have to manage any problem behavior. Remember, don’t criticise or take away stars if your child doesn’t reach the goal, but make sure you follow up with consistent consequences for misbehavior.

Remember to keep track of your child’s behavior.

Behaviors to monitor:

• How many times my kids come when I call them for the first time.
• How many times I praise them for positive behavior.

Don’t forget about your own needs or looking after your relationship. What do you plan to do for yourself in the next week? 

I need to recognise when I am off track and proactively put myself back to track by giving my self a breathing space.

I also need to checked-in with my partner how she is going and if our family is on track.