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Getting Your Kids To Cooperate
An Excerpt
By Elizabeth Pantley
." The minutes he takes off you can pick him up, put him in the cart and say, "I see you've decided to ride in the cart."
Lighten up: Use humor to gain cooperation. A bit of silliness can often diffuse the tension and get your child to cooperate willingly. It also can help you feel better about your day.
Stay calm: Avoid letting your emotions take control. Don't yell, threaten, criticize or belittle. Instead, ask yourself a question, "What is the problem?" Then, make a statement of fact, such as, "There are dirty dishes and snack wrappers in the TV room." Pause. Be silent. And stare at your children. It's amazing that kids will know exactly what you're thinking. Most often, they'll respond by cleaning up. If not, back up your approach with one of the other solutions.
Use knowledge and skills: Read parenting books and learn new skills. For example, my book, Kid Cooperation (How to Stop Yelling, Nagging and Pleading and Get Kids to Cooperate) has lots more suggestions and practical ideas.
