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Every child is a little fussy from time to time. Like when they are asked to get ready to go to school or leave the park. Kids just don’t like taking direct orders. They are curious and often don’t have a grasp on the concept of time. So they just don’t seem to see what the big deal is about. But this can become frustrating and hard to handle if the behavior continues and complicates even the simplest of tasks on a daily basis. Do you have to fight with your child over everything, bribe them in order to get them to comply or worry that they are going to have a meltdown in any social gathering? Then you might have a particularly difficult child on your hands. And maybe this manifests in them being defiant, excessively fussy or just having no control over their anger. But whatever the case may be, it’s time to get through to your child. And yelling at them is not the way to go about it. So, what is? If you’d like to know how to handle your troublesome little one, then this is the article for you. Keep reading!
1. Pick Your Battles
Even a great general knows when to fight and when to hold off from engaging with their enemies. So, why would you pick a fight with your child every time they taunt you or press your buttons? If you get down to battle for every show of bad behavior, you will never stop being at war with them! Instead make a list of a few things that are serious no-nos in terms of their behavior. Focus on those that are pressing, dangerous to others and need to be addressed immediately. Learn to prioritize their problems and start with those that must be dealt with immediately. This way you are working on a few things instead of reprimanding them for everything they do. Maintain discipline and consistency in these areas and then once this behavior is corrected, you can move down the list.
2. Take Primitive Measures
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This one takes patience and some practice but it works like a charm! Learn to use your knowledge of your child’s triggers to predict and avoid any meltdowns or blowups. For example, if your child likes throwing things on the counter onto the floor, then shift these things onto a higher shelf that they can’t reach. It helps to know when your child is most energetic and in a good mood and when they are grumpy and need a nap. This way, you can avoid dragging them out to the grocery store right when they are about to go down for a midday nap, and you can avoid their tantrums and public meltdowns. You can also take their favorite dolls or snacks with you on a longer outing in order to keep them in high spirits.
3. Maintain Control And Stay Calm
This is easier said than done, especially when all you want to do is scream right back at your unhinged child. But no matter how you’re feeling or how exhausted you are, maintaining your composure is key. Don’t give into your child’s demands when they are exhibiting bad behavior. If you do, it will only show them your weakness and encourage them to continue this behavior in order to get what they want from that moment on. Instead of letting your child manipulate you, stand firm and allow them to throw a tantrum and cool down. Tell them that you will only discuss the matter after they have regained some control over their emotions and then take it from there.
You need to make sure you’re level headed and calm so that you can handle the situation well. So keep your tone neutral and steady when you tell your kids to stop their behavior. If your little one isn’t prone to taking orders well then try giving them suggestions instead. For example, if they are to wash their hands before a meal, ask them to instead of simply telling them to do the task. Keep in mind that the tone that you employ with your child also has a huge effect on how they respond. In other words, it’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.
4. Listen To Them
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Your kids are not evil or spiteful. And although sometimes it can feel like they want to drive you mad, chances are that they just don’t know how to deal with their own emotions yet. So when you ask them why they acted the way they did, be ready to listen and empathize with them. Once they know you’re truly on their side, they will be more willing to find an appropriate response and outlet.
Raising kids, no matter their demeanor, is never easy. That is why it’s important to be patient with yourself and with them as you work through their behavioral issues together!
