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Step 1
Notice how your child tends to act up when you are the most frazzled. That isn't a coincidence. Take a deep breath, hold it and blow out the breath and the tension. This won't solve any problems, but it may help to relieve the tension and calm your child.
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Step 2
Take a minute or two with your child. Explain what's happening and what you're going to be doing. Ask your child for help to make both of you feel better. A minute in positive action will do more good than hours of punishment.
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Step 3
Look carefully for behavior that you wish to see and reward it immediately. This is a very small start in behavior modification.
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Step 4
Keep your promises. Children need to know that they will get the reward that they are working toward. Make certain that you're willing to give the promised reward before opening your mouth.
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Step 5
Be consistent and united. Make certain that all household adults respond to behavior with the same expectations and responses.
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Step 6
Believe that your child is a good and capable of good behavior. Your belief can be a self-fulfilling prophecy.
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Step 7
Be the grown up. Watch the type of behavior that you exhibit. Decide what good behavior is or isn't and demonstrate it daily.
