We all want children to behave, but do you know how to get them to do so?

We can get them to behave in many ways- yet get them to behave in a positive way, happily. Yup, positive behavior done positively.

Sounds easy?

It is. If you follow these simple steps.

Always remember sometimes some children need more time than others, you need to keep an eye out for the special need children and when difficult situations arise. These tips are the regular everyday situations not the tough, horrible ones that pop up here and there. That we will need to deal with another time.

Here goes:

Get your child/ student to behave the way you want them to behave:

1. Have a routine and structure in place so that the children know what to expect : When children know what they have to do, parents and teachers do not need to keep on saying something as long as it is consistent. Let us say we always wash our hands whenever we come home. It is something that happens everyday no matter what, the children get so used to washing to their hands that eventually they go wash their hands without being told to do so!
2.  Relationship– work on your relationship with the child, they want to please you. Show you care, love and cherish them. They in return will want to listen to everything you got to say.
3. Expectations– make sure they are age appropriate, because if it is not and they cannot do it, you will get frustrated that they are not listening!
4. Flexible and responsive when need be- it shows you care and understand. Say a child is not feeling well, you generally do not allow drinks in bed and now you make an exception to your rule and allow it, yup, it shows you care about them for it something they currently need.The children had a difficult day in class today and need some more time for movement although it will interfere with your schedule it is needed. By giving them the extra time the children  will fidget less and be calmer when it is time to teach.
5. Positive reinforcement– let the child know that you like what they are doing. Reinforcement  can be verbal or physical like a hug. Know that positive reinforcement will help build your relationship with the child.

What to do when children are not behaving the way you want:

1. Ask yourself why, did something happen?
2. Offer choices
3. Redirect
4. Limit negative attention
5. Seek assistance if needed

Sometimes a tweak in the schedule will limit the negative behavior. Say you start with an earlier bedtime, less center time in a classroom.

Children want to be good, you just need to show them how.