Behavior -

Parent Dos and Don'ts

What is good behavior?

It’s hard to define, but everyone wants their children to have it.

Sometimes, children act out because they want attention. However, much of it is related to how you interact with them.

Here are five tips you can follow to help your children:

1. Don’t rob them of their sense of accomplishment. Teach them the value of working for what they want.

2. Allow them to struggle a little. It’s normal to want to make things as easy as possible for your children. However, frequent “rescuing” will make them dependent -- and ultimately unhappy.

3. Teach them the direct connection between effort, achievement, and reward.

4. Set limits and stick to them. Don’t threaten punishments you’re unwilling to enforce. If you only threaten, every consequence will become a negotiation.

5. Be selective in what you give them. By giving them everything they want, they will begin to expect it. Special occasions are fine, but don’t fall into the trap of frequent, unrestrained giving.

Many teen issues are really related to a misplaced sense of entitlement. These issues have been ingrained in them over many years by well meaning parents.

By following these and other tips, you’ll help your children in more ways than you know.

Return from Behavior to Study Skills Tips.