How to Get Kids to Behave in Public

It’s most every parent's fear that their kid will turn crazy while out and about. Tantrums in the checkout line of the grocer, or fits when it’s time to leave the playground are terrible. Those can make any mother secretly wish she could disappear. Follow these simple steps to get your kids to behave while in public.

Instructions

1. When possible, try to work around your kids schedule when going out in public. Taking a tired, hungry kid to the grocery store is a nightmare waiting to happen. Although your kids schedule can't dictate whenever you are out in public, a well fed and rested kid is more likely to behave.

2. Prepare your kids for your public outing. Let them know where you are going, what you are going to be doing and about how long you expect to be there. Kids behavior will be best when they have an idea of what is going to happen in advance.

3. Outline your expectations. Kids need to know what is expected of them when out in public. If you are heading to the grocer, make it clear that it isn't a trip to get candy or toys and you expect their cooperation. When you say something like "We are getting only what I have on my list. We are not getting candy or toys. I need you to walk next to me, to keep your hands to yourself and to keep your hands off things in the store" your kids will understand what their role and responsibilities are during your trip out.

4. Offer a reward when your kids behave in public. Let your kids know that if they meet your expectations they will be rewarded. "If you don't ask for toys or candy, walk next to me and keep your hands to yourself, you can watch TV while I cook dinner."

5. Threaten punishment if positive reinforcement is not working. Grounding or restricting your child will get them to behave in a worst case scenario.

Tips & Warnings

• Praise your child generously for good behavior.

• Don't ever hit your child in anger. This can leave a lasting scar. Have a time out if you are not calm enough to deal with the problem.