Most parents like to see their child behaving well. Positive child behavior is something that parents can promote by using certain strategies that will teach a child what good behavior is and how to achieve it. By working together and maintaining realistic expectations, parents can encourage positive behavior from their child.
Background
How most children behave is based on their age, the home environment and what their parents and others expect of them. This can vary, depending on family background and disciplinary measures. Parents who do not expect positive behavior out of their child will see less reward than those who promote good conduct in the home, encourage it from their child and clearly outline their expectations. Parents might have more success if they are aware of age-appropriate behaviors.
Reinforcement
One method of achieving good behavior is by providing reinforcement when a child acts in a positive way. Elaine Goodwin, Ed.D., a patient education coordinator at Community Coordinated Child Care, says parents should be very specific with praise. When parents give specific details about what they like about a child's behavior, that child will be likely to repeat the positive action. Parents can promote positive behavior by being affectionate with a child and reminding her how important she is.
Discipline
Part of increasing positive behavior is to reduce negative conduct. Ignoring minor misbehavior does not reinforce a child's actions, and in fact he might give up if he does not receive a response. However, there should be consequences for a child who shows dangerous conduct, such as hitting or throwing things. Parents can decide ahead of time what discipline they will use in these situations. Using time-out, by designating a place for the child to sit until he calms down, can be an effective method of discipline when done consistently. Inconsistency can be confusing for a child who doesn't understand why his behavior was bad.
Expectations
Children need guidance to understand the difference between positive and negative behavior. When a parent clearly explains expectations for a child, it teaches her how to behave in a positive manner. If the rules are clear, the child will better understand why she is receiving a consequence when she breaks a rule. Children also behave better when given more choices about their environment. A child has little control over her life, so allowing her to make positive choices in small decisions can reduce her frustration.
Self-Control
As a child grows, it is important for him to learn the concept of self-control in order to regulate behavior. According to the National Association of School Psychologists, teaching a child self-control helps him to make better decisions and be more tolerant of others. Self-control skills in a child mean he can think about his actions and choose how to react. Take advantage of periodic opportunities for introducing the concept of self-control, even in very young children. As children grow, goals for self-control and positive behavior can be greater, and parents can increase expectations.
References
- National Network for Child Care: Five Tips for Guiding Children�??s Behavior
- Family Doctor.org: Child Behavior: What Parents Can Do to Change Their Child�??s Behavior
- Child Care Aware: More Than Just Saying �??No�?�: Guiding Your Child to Positive Behaviors
- The National Association of School Psychologists: Teaching Young Children Self-Control Skills
