Behavior Tips: Changing Behavior

By paying attention to what you say, you can often get your child to behave properly.

The easiest way to remember this technique is to stay positive. Tell your child what you want him to do, instead of what not to do. Here are a few examples:

Don't say: "Don't throw the truck."
Instead: "The truck is for driving. You may throw this soft ball."

Don't say: "Don't climb with a toy in your hand."
Instead: "I'll hold your toy while you climb."

Don't say: "Don't chew books."
Instead: "We look at books. Take the book out of your mouth."

Don't say: "Don't play with the garbage."
Instead: "The garbage is dirty. Let's walk away from it."

Don't say: "Don't shut the door."
Instead: "Leave the door open."

Don't say: "Don't go near the elevator."
Instead: "Hold my hand while we wait for the elevator."

Don't say: "Don't eat the crayon."
Instead: "Crayons are for drawing."

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