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:

DUMBING DOWN

Question: How can I get my son to stop saying everything's dumb?

Behavior: Down on activities.

Problem: Disengagement.

Solution: The trick is to figure out what's behind it.

Activity: What does he mean when he calls it dumb? Is it too easy for him? Increase the challenge: 'Can you do it left-handed? What about with one eye closed? How about left-handed, one-eyed while hopping on one foot and reciting the alphabet to the tune of 'Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star'?

Or does he just think it's too easy? Goad him: 'Is it dumb because you can't do it?' Make sure any goading remains playful. It should come across as a challenge rather than a putdown.

Is he worried it's too hard? Support him: 'I'll be your coach' or 'Let's play once on the same team.' Issuing a challenge when he's already afraid he can't succeed will drive him further away.

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

  • Read the Naughty Column archive at http://www.minnmoms.com/naughtycolumn.
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