The Naughty Column: Let consequence for eating with hands sink in

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:

STICK A FORK IN IT

Question: My son knows perfectly well how to use a fork, but lately he has started eating with his hands again. How can I nip this in the bud?

Behavior: Eating with hands.

Problem: Bad manners. Bad hygiene.

Solution: Since he's being lazy, make sure it's more work for him to use his hands.

Activity: I like a simple, logical consequence here. One reason not to use his hands is germs. The way to get rid of germs is to wash hands. So, every time he touches his food with his hands, make him get up from the table and wash his hands. If this happens 10 times in one meal, so be it. No need to get mad - just direct him to the sink. Soon, you won't have to say a word - just point. And you may reach a point where he realizes what he's done and walks himself over. That point will directly precede the one where he realizes before using his hands that he shouldn't.

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

-- Read the Naughty Column archive at minnmoms.com/naughtycolumn.