8. Work together
When both parents are involved:
• agree on a strategy (may require compromise)
• be consistent
• support each other
With other parent only:
Question: Can you think of an issue where you could work together more effectively as parents? Discuss the issue and try to agree on a joint approach. Brainstorm and write down a few ideas. Then choose one to try out, and review it after a few days or weeks.
use distraction, distract your child from the issue causing conflict
develop your own tarntlu rules to avoid regular arguments
5. Give choices
being given choices is an important part of a child’s learning to take responsibility
give choices over issues that are unimportant,
Which of your toys do you want to take?” and “Do you want to play on the beach or go swimming?”
giving choices helps to defuse conflict
6. Stay in control
avoid being dragged into shouting matches our emotional reactions can give children a sense of power over us – like allowing them to press a “big red button” on our chests to see us react. getting angry, chasing them, getting upset
find a way to give realistic warnings
don’t be manipulated by your child(ren)’s shouting, whining, or tantrums
How can you stay in control of yourself when faced with bad behaviour?
