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:

GOOD TIME FOR A DOG

Question: I'm about ready to trade in my 12-month-old. How can I get him to stop throwing his sippy cup on the floor after each drink?

Behavior: Throwing drink when done.

Problem: Inconvenient to bend down for it, makes a mess and feels disrespectful.

Solution: More structure. How are your reflexes?

Activity: Do not leave the cup in his possession. Offer him drinks and stand there while he's drinking so you can catch it when he tries to throw it. My son would typically fling it to the right, so that's where I kept my hand. If he tries to throw it, say, "No," and show him what he should have done with it. Then scoot it back out of his reach. After a couple of minutes, offer him another drink and repeat the process. When he finally sets it down, even if it's accidental, tell him, "Good job!" This will take some time, but at least it puts you back in the driver's seat.

  • 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.

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