POSITIVE GUIDANCE

The purpose of guidance is to help a child learn self- discipline—the ability to control their own actions.

1 st Step is with YOU!!!! Set a good example! Be Consistent & Strong!! Don’t Give in before they do!!!!!!!

Prevent behavior before it starts…..

1. REDIRECT CHILD Works well for younger toddlers Take child’s attention off the issue that is causing the negative response Easy to do at young age because of short attention span DISTRACTION Sometimes PHYSICAL removing

What to do??? Sally is 18 months she is upset because her mother has left the room…

GIVE CHOICES Allows child to exercise control while parents are still in charge of situations Make sure choices are ones you agree with. Never ask child what they want first! Limit to 2 choices

Good or Bad What do you want for lunch? You cant wear a bathing suit in December?

REPHRASE DIRECTIONS Use Positive Words-Tell them what you want… instead of what not to do Not allowed to use words: Don’t, No, Stop (unless danger involved) Make sure words are clearly defined; Don’t use “behave” “ be good” “That’s bad”

Always focus on the behavior

Make this more effective “don’t track mud into the house” “stop writing on the walls”

ENCOURAGE TALKING “Use Your Words” Help children learn to use words to communicate how they feel. Explanation of situation, by 2 need spoken commands & explanations. By 3 take reasonable, loving guidance

????? 2 year old Tom is crying and pointing at the cabinet. You know he wants cereal, What should you do???

Unintentional Behavior Don’t punish behaviors that child has no way of knowing it was wrong. –Ex. Dropping glass milk too heavy –Picking neighbors flowers Use as a teachable moment instead

Effective Punishment Natural Consequences- bangs toy too hard and breaks it, always make them a part of the clean-up process. What to do…A child wont eat their lunch????

Effective Punishment cont. Loss of Privileges- punishment should fit the crime, should relate to behavior

Effective Punishment cont. Giving Time Out- child gets chance to clam down & regain self control 1 minute = 1 year of age Talk about situation before they walk away End on Positive Note

Keep your Coooollll!!!! If you are too upset walk away Come back after you have calmed down

GOAL is to discourage a child from repeating a behavior…. Not teach them to get better at not getting caught