Do you feel frustrated that you are having a difficult time managing your child’s behavior? Are you sure how to go about managing your child’s behavior? To help understand the common challenges parents face with their child’s behavior and for child behavior management tips, therapist Meredith Gardner, LPC, PLLC.
Tell me a little about yourself.
“I have a master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. The past 15 I have worked for years with children, youth and families in the DC metro area, privately in Washington, DC specializing in emotional and behavior issues. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy with many of my clients, which can be very helpful when working with children and families.”
What common challenges do parents face when it comes to their children’s behavior?
There are many challenges parents face when dealing with children’s behavior. And alone the children push the boundaries; that is in the job description. It is the parents’ responsibility to make sure they respond appropriately when this happens. Often parents are tired because parents can make it harder. They may lose their temper with their children, or ignore behavior problems because they are too tired to act. I find the biggest challenges for parents are being consistent and following through when behavior issues come up.”
What child behavior management tips can you give parents?
“Parents with children should be clear about rules and boundaries. Also It must be clear what happens when children break the rules (ie: if you lose TV before the end of your homework, you lose TV privileges for the week). -wont-address .html”>email address. Once the behavior has been addressed, an appropriate consequence must be given. Once the result is given you must follow through. If you say you will. phone for a week, then you need to keep the phone for a week. If a child has lost weekend sports privileges, make sure they don’t play on Saturday or Sunday. Whatever you say you will do. You must do it. /a>.
If it’s regular behavior in question, often having behavior management in place can be helpful. With this type of system you target 1 -3 behaviors you want your child to focus on. You make a chart with clearly stated goals and reward your child for reaching his goals each day. This type of system focuses on positive reinforcement and can be very effective, as long as the parents can achieve it on their own.
What types of professional help is available to parents who are struggling to manage their children’s behavior?
Many mental health professionals such as counselors, social and other therapists are available to work with kids and parents. Often when parents look like they no longer have control, they seek professional help and support. Counselors can often assess the reasons a child is acting out in the first place, work with the child on those behaviors, and can help system management in your home. Often pediatricians or school counselors they can refer you to a clinic that can help your family when you feel overwhelmed and out of control.
Meredith, thank you for providing parenting tips on behavior. For more information about Meredith Gardner or her work you can check out her website at http://www.meredithgardner.com/.
Recommended Readings:
How to Manage Your Anger with Your Child
How to Resist a Temper Tantrum
How to listen to your child
