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:

PARENTAL ADVISORY

Question: My son wants to listen to a music album, but I'm worried that some of it isn't age-appropriate.

Behavior: Wants to listen to music with offensive lyrics.

Problem: Concerns that inappropriate content may lead to bad behavior.

Solution: Take advantage of this teachable moment.

Activity: While you could simply censor it, that would create a tempting taboo. My preference is to use his interest to create a dialogue. Discuss your specific concerns with him. When he can articulate your concerns, he may be ready to handle the content. For older kids, I would turn this into a written report in which he would be required to justify the merits of the music. If he's not ready, don't feel pressured to cave. But if he is ready, the labor of the discussion will serve as a softer deterrent than an absolute block.

  • Want Rustin's solution for your child's challenging behavior? Send questions to naughtycolumn@gmail.com.

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