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:

TRIPPING

Question: How can I survive a road trip with my 6-year-old?

Behavior: Whiney and can't sit still.

Problem: Maddening.

Solution: Focus his attention on the here and now rather than on some far-off destination.

Activity: Portable DVD players have really come down in price. That can be your ace in the hole. The objective, though, is to never use it. Your instinct may be to throw all of the toys and activities at him right from the outset, but you'll be far better off rationing them. You don't want to empty your bag of tricks with several hours left. You can try the alphabet game, where you try to locate the letters of the alphabet in sequence as you drive by. There are license plate games, such as trying to see how many different states you can find before you arrive at your destination. And never underestimate the power of some crayons and a notepad. If you don't happen to get to the DVD, that's just fine. Then, it will be all the more effective when you really do need it.

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

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