How to Creatively Punish a Preteen

When a preteen acts up, parents can make a lasting impression with creative discipline. Using simple cause and effect techniques gets the point across quickly.

Instructions

1. Serve them the same dinner for a week straight. Feed the rest of the family normal meals. They will think twice before complaining about what is for dinner again.

2. Remove their bedroom door from its hinges. Place in the garage. By the time they get it back, they probably will not slam it so hard.

3. Borrow their possessions without asking. Leave them on the floor in every room of the house. When your preteen grumbles, simply reply, "I thought that is where you wanted your things. That is where you leave mine."

4. Decorate a shoebox and label it. "Nothing to Do." Fill it with chores written on 3x5 cards. At the first sign of a boredom whine, discipline accordingly.

5. Hold her hand while shopping in public. Simple, effective punishment for not being where she said she would be. Now she is right where you can find her.

6. Call his girlfriend house when he is there and ask to speak to Pookie. When he gets on the line, remind him how he acted on the phone the last time your boss called.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful with this discipline technique. Humiliation is not the key, getting your preteen's attention is the goal.