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:

INSOMNIA 911

Question: How can I stop my daughter from getting out of bed?

Behavior: Getting out of bed.

Problem: She needs to sleep, and you need her to sleep.

Solution: March her right back.

Activity: Explain to her as you're putting her down that, until morning, she's only allowed to come out for an emergency. It's worth a few minutes of your time to elaborate on what qualifies: injuries, going to the bathroom, etc. Then when she comes out, ask her if it's an emergency. Assuming it's not, don't engage her. Don't get upset; just march her back to bed. Assure her that finding her missing stuffed animal is something you'll help her resolve in the morning. Say good night; don't linger. Repeat as needed. Once she sees she's not going to get anywhere, she'll stop coming out.

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

-- Read the Naughty Column archive at minnmoms.com/naughtycolumn.

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