Creativity expert, professor, father and former day care provider Rustin Wolfe writes a weekly MinnMoms parenting advice column that uses creative punishments to put a positive spin on negative behavior.

Here's one of his creative solutions:

MY KINGDOM FOR A NAP

Question: When my preschooler gets overtired, he becomes inconsolable. What nifty punishments can I use to whip him into shape?

Behavior: Tantrum.

Problem: Inconsolable.

Solution: This one's on you. You're the adult; he's the child. Make sure he gets enough sleep.

Activity: Going negative won't help. You already pointed out that his emotions are out of his control. Punishing him for something that's beyond his current capability is not the message you want to send. Instead, put him in a position to succeed: Manage his sleep better. Perhaps he needs more nap time or an earlier bedtime. If you recognize one of these tantrums coming on, get him out of the situation. Have him rest/nap. As a child, he can't be expected to have the judgment of an adult, and your household is not a democracy — he doesn't get a vote when you invoke your parental authority. It's your job to do what's best for him even when he'd rather stay up playing.

  • Want Rustin's solution for your child's challenging behavior? Send questions to naughtycolumn@gmail.com.

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