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.

Hre's one of his creative solutions:

Question: I can't get my 4-year-old to come inside when I call, even after several warnings. How can I coax her back inside the house without battle?

Behavior: Won't come in.

Problem: Need her back inside the house.

Solution: Instead of telling her she can't play outside, tell her she can help close the garage door ...with magic.

Activity: Prepare by slipping the garage door remote into your pocket. Ask her if she would like to close the garage door ...with magic. Tell her to say some magic words and point. As she points, hit the remote in your pocket. Smile. Act impressed. Tomorrow, if she's well-behaved, perhaps you'll let her try again.

-- 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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