You Know, those things!

We all have those moments of frustration when our kids just won’t cooperate or behave. Just when you think all is good, it’s not. Refusals to use the potty, teasing siblings, talking back, snarky remarks, you know, those things. Those things that make us want to stand in the shower and scream or runaway from home.

We all know what doesn’t work effectively. Yelling, Screaming and Spanking! They just seem to make it worse and make us feel like really bad parents. We aren’t. We just don’t have the tools we need to survive those rough child- rearing moments.

Using a behavior modification program can work well if you use your 20 seconds of courage and commit. I have used point systems with success for many years. Children will respond to points given generously and with great enthusiasm. A wonderful part of this type of intervention is being able to celebrate the successes both big and small along the way and help your kids feel empowered and proud of their accomplishments. Doing the boogie dance at the end of the day sure beats screaming in the shower any day.

Next time we will talk about why consistency is so important!

About the Author

Anita Licklider has a MS in Educational Management, credentials in special education, general education, counseling and School Psychology. She has over thirty years of experience working with children in and outside the educational setting.

She has done individual and group counseling with kids from 4 years to 16 years old.

Anita also developed and implemented behavior intervention plans for special education and general education students and families. She advocated for kids writing IEP and 504 plans for the school districts.

Anita has also taught in special education, general education (most grade levels), she was the special education director and director of student services.

Anita has worked with at-risk kids for over 20 years!