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:

TWOSIE

Question: How can I get my 4-year-old to poo on the potty? He has been peeing there for quite some time, but he flat-out refuses to have a seat.

Behavior: Won't poo on the potty.

Problem: Expensive diapers, stinky mess or both.

Solution: Shaping.

Activity: Acclimate him gradually. Try not to make it into a big deal. Show him how the toilet works, let him watch you use it and then gradually introduce him to it.

If he's afraid of the flush, flush it while he's far away, have him take one step closer before you flush it again and eventually let him do the flushing.

If he's afraid to sit on the toilet seat, have him go in his diaper nearby. If he's afraid of getting sucked in, make sure he has an appropriately sized seat — it may be a good item for him to help pick out — and then have him flush a Cheerio and watch

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it spiral down the drain.

You may find that it's less about punishment/reward and more about finding his comfort zone, and then to gradually move him from there toward the behavior you'd like to see.

  • Want Rustin's solution for your child's challenging behavior? Read his bio and post a question at forums.minnmoms.com/index.php?topic=445.0. on the Naughty Column forum.

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