Summer is a time of fun, sleeping in and staying up later, loose schedules and routines. The other side of that can be a young child whose rhythms are off because of the lack of routine. Frustration can set in for both the child and the parent when it seems like all attention has suddenly been focused on the child's negative behaviors. To avoid constant battles and arguments, be aware of the value of positive discipline:
- Always notice those times when your child is doing what you want them to do. Make sure you tell them that you see them and appreciate how they’re remembering to follow the rules, do their chore, be nice to their siblings. A behavior chart is a simple and effective way to track those times you notice those good behaviors. A white board or plain piece of paper can serve as the chart with stickers or hand-drawn emojis noting every time you catch them in the behavior you're working on. For example, this week's goal is to wake up and get out of bed the first time Mom or Dad knocks on the bedroom door.
- Rewards for good behavior do not have to have a dollar value. A simple high five, fist bump, clap or “whoop, whoop” can let a child know you’re happy with their behavior.
- Create a Rewards Jar. Talk to your child about what kind of reward would make them happy, being sure to steer away from buying things. Examples of no-cost rewards are the parent reads aloud to the child, turn on some music and dance, parent colors or draws with the child, go on a scavenger hunt in the house and compare treasures, stay up 15 minutes later or have 15 more minutes screen time. When a good behavior is noticed and repeated several times, it’s time to draw a reward out of the jar!
Youth First is a local non-profit that provides Family First programs free to communities in our area. These programs focus on families with children ages 3-6 and 7-17 using the Strengthening Families curriculum. Programs will be scheduled soon--keep checking the Youth First website, under programs, to find a location near you!
