Fun ways to encourage good behavior

Building a bond with your child helps encourage good behavior. This is an important part of being a family! (Remember: your kids need limits too.)
 

Simple things you can do everyday

·      Say nice things about your kids to other people when they can overhear you. It helps them feel competent and loved!

·      Smile and acknowledge your child every time they walk into the room.

·      Catch your child being good! Our behavior charts have great tips on how to make this work!

·      For older kiddos, create a book club and read the same book your child chooses to read.

·      On that same note, read to your child every night.

·      Create a secret handshake.

·      Start the day with a positive greeting and smile. When your kids wake up, give them a big hug and create a little saying like, “Good morning sunshine! I’m so happy you’re awake!” Remember, you set the tone for the day.

Have fun
 

·      Turn off the TV and be active with your kids: go outside and play ball, wrestle, ride bikes, blow bubbles. 

·      Turn on music and dance; be silly. 

·      Sing together in the car.

·      Take your kiddo on a date.

·      Go to a farmer’s market.

·      Watch funny YouTube videos together.

·      Take cookies to a nursing home.

·      Play “I spy.”

·      Plant some vegetables and tend the garden together. Bonus: this is a good way to get kids  to eat vegetables.

·      Go to the park.

·      Start family traditions like Friday pizza night, or Sunday morning pancakes, or Monday night family game night.

Be present

·      Ask how their day went and really listen.

·      Reflect back what you hear your kids say, so they know you are listening. 

·      Put away your phone and computer.

·      Really pay attention and find joy in their little personalities.

·      Relax and have fun with your amazing kids!