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:

THREAT LEVEL: CHOCOLATE CHIP

Question: My son has been saying things like, 'If you don't give me that cookie, I'll kick you!' How can I get him to stop threatening me?

Behavior: Child threatening parent.

Problem: Not an acceptable way to get what he wants.

Solution: Structure his thinking.

Activity: Sound thinking is learned. Guide his thought process with questions (i.e. the Socratic Method). 'Do you think that kicking me will increase the chance that you'll get a cookie? If you kick me, what do you think will happen next?' If you can begin reasoning with him, you'll have an opportunity to present your case for not allowing him to eat the cookie at this time. 'Do cookies help you grow?' You will also have the chance to explain when it would be an appropriate time for him to get the cookie. 'When is a good time to eat cookies?' He doesn't have to agree, but it helps if he senses that you're not merely being mean.

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

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