• give them space to work out their own disagreements
• remain impartial- don't always blame the older child or jump to conclusions
• intervene if they are hurting each other
• don't allow unkind words or bullying
• think ahead for regular issues that cause disputes: take turns when possible
Question: What are the main causes of arguments between your children? Or between your only child and his/her friends?
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?