Making an effort to positively change your child’s behaviour is often a difficult task, but as parents, we have the ability to take control of our child’s behaviour, and help them take control of their own. Behavioral techniques teach important values to our children, such as self-control, respect and the ability to regard those around us.
Keep changes simple and easy. Correct unwanted behaviour quickly and move them to a safe environment, especially if your child has a tendency to physically retaliate when their behaviour is challenged. Explain to your child that once they are calm/have decided to behave in an acceptable manner, they can return to what they were previously doing.
Although it can be challenging to maintain behavioural changes for what seems like an eternity, consistency is the key to effectiveness. Children can sense indecision and wavering very well and if they believe that they can get away with something, they will most likely try to. When you make your child aware that you are in charge and consistently enforce routine behaviour, your child will know what to expect and understand the rules of the household.
Allow your child freedom of choice. As a child, your life is often mapped-out for you, on a day-to-day basis. Ask your child a few simple questions which allow a sense of freedom, for example, what t-shirt they would like to wear out of a choice of two, or whether they want an apple, or some grapes. Avoid your child feeling totally powerless and avoid them acting in inappropriate ways.
Make sure there are always consequences and rewards for your child’s behaviour. If a child understands that challenging behaviour equals a consequence not to their liking, their behaviour will alter quickly! When rewarding your child for positive changes in behaviour, use a medium such as a behaviour chart and use stickers to record how well your child has behaved. Provide them with a treat once a certain number of stickers have been attained, such as a trip to the park, or a later bed-time than usual. Ask your child what they want to work towards earning; therefore you will understand what motivates them. Visual aids such as a behaviour chart show your child that their good behaviour has physical rewards, helping your child to also monitor their own progress