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Let's take a time-out from time-outs. Kids are going to test our limits — it's in their job description. But instead of dreading how to respond, parents can seize the opportunity to create activities that are educational and engaging.
Yes, "punishments" can be fun.
Creativity expert, professor, father and former day care provider Rustin Wolfe applies his scientific techniques to some of life's smallest — but most exasperating — problems weekly at MinnMoms.com.
Here's one of his creative solutions:
Lap time
Question: How can I get my son to sit on my lap during group story time?
Behavior: Not doing what you want.
Problem: Can't read and keep an eye on him if he's running about.
Solution: Make it more desirable.
Action: One time, while my wife was reading to a group of children, our son wouldn't sit on her lap. Instead of threatening him, I sat on my wife's lap. Our son thought it was pretty silly. I made it fun, and then he wanted what I had. Sure enough, as soon as I got up, he climbed aboard. Problem solved — no yelling necessary.
