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:

AMERICAN IDOL

Question: We have two boys. Our toddler wants to play with whatever our 4-year-old is using. How can we get him to play with his own toys?

Behavior: Imitating older brother's play.

Problem: Older brother needs his space, and some of his toys aren't safe for his younger brother.

Solution: Brains over brawn: Use the problem to create the solution.

Activity: Don't hand the toddler his toys. Instead, have your older son 'play' with some of your younger son's toys. After a few minutes, your toddler will be screaming for the chance to play with his own toys. Let him take them. Then, show your older son how he can inconspicuously start playing with his own. An additional benefit of this strategy is that it teaches your older son a strategy to manage things without you.

  • 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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