Try Therapy for a Change
copyright 2011 Antonia Caretto
www.BeTreatedWell.com   
Antonia Caretto, Ph.D., PLLC  (248) 553-9053   
    Parenting Tips

    Make eye contact before setting a limit.  If necessary, say “look at me.”

    Give warnings about transitions or changes.

    Make one request at a time and be specific.

    Give choices rather than ultimatums.

    Give instructions that tell your child what to “do” rather than “don’t.”

    Reward good behavior at least as often as you punish bad behavior.

    Do more and say less.

    Allow and create naturally occurring consequences  when at all possible.

    Have your child tell you what motivates and rewards them.

    Be consistent and be able to follow through with any threat or promise you make.

    Find a way to change a behavior through a reward.

    Remain calm—take a time out yourself if you need to.

    Chose your battles wisely.

    Try visual tools like star charts.

    Use rewards that aren’t monetary or food.

    Approach the idea of behavior change as a gradual process and set reasonable goals so that your child (and you) can succeed.

    Keep private any and all discussions about Adult topics (sex, finances, etc).