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:

NAUGHTY HUSBAND

Question: How can I get my husband to fold the laundry?

Behavior: Chores not done.

Problem: Someone has to do the chores, and if it's not him, then it's you.

Solution: How balanced is your feedback?

Activity: No, husbands are not children, but they are still subject to the same psychological principles. Is this the first time you've had the discussion? How did it go in the past? What led to this point? Why are you the one responsible for delegating? The last time he folded (if ever), how did you respond? Did you compliment? Did you criticize? Both? You don't want him to rationalize that there's no point because he can't please you anyway, so give him something positive to hang his hat on. You can also make it more challenging. Suggest turning it into a game: folding one item after each first down or sorting into creative piles like most seductive on top. But what may work best in motivating him is something as simple as you joining in on large items. You hold one end while he holds the other. Fold toward each other and meet with a kiss. Anything after that is entirely up to you.

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

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