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:

Your toast is on the roof

Question: In the morning, while I'm doing 47 other things, my daughter constantly whines about how long it's taking for her breakfast to magically appear. How can I get her to be more patient?

Behavior: Impatient.

Problem: Irritating.

Solution: Make up a ridiculous story about why it's taking so long.

Activity: One time when my son was complaining about how long his toast was taking, I explained (with a wink) what the holdup was. First, I had to get some bread and put it in the toaster. Then, the toaster would have turned into a potato. Next, I'd have to take the potato and carve it into a strawberry. Once I had the strawberry, I would have to toss it on the roof and wait for 15 minutes... You get the idea. By the time I was done telling him my tall tale, his toast was ready. He had been so busy listening to my story that he had

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forgotten to continue his whining.

  • 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.