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:

THE HUMAN STEP STOOL

Question: How can I lift my daughter to the drinking fountain (or bubbler for those in Wisconsin) without wrenching my back?

Behavior: Lifting.

Problem: Back pain.

Solution: Bend at the knees.

Activity: Instead of lifting, squat. With your knees bent, she can stand on your quadriceps. You will become a human step stool. In addition to being easier on your back, this puts less strain on her midsection and puts her in a more active role. Be sure she hasn't already stepped in anything you don't want on your pant leg, though. And if you have bad knees, you may be out of luck.

-- 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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