Yesterday I read this blog by Dawn Lantero in which she spoke of “Doing what works.” That is such a nice soft, yet elegant concept. Imagine saying to your children, “Hey, let’s do what we know works,” when they choose a misbehavior, instead of “That’s 1, that’s 2…” Wendy Young of Kidlutions also had a great kernel of advice, “We teach our children to tie their shoes and ride their bikes, over and over. We need to teach them social-emotional skills in the same manner.”
“Thank you for getting a fresh shirt for your sister. That was kind of you to run upstairs to get it.”
“I can see you are frustrated, thank you for asking me to move the puppy. I can get him out of your way.”
“I see you wanted to get up from the table, but you knew it was time to sit still. Good thinking.”
In order to teach our children how to behave we need to provide them with the words, thoughts and actions to choose a new behavior. This means breaking down skill-sets into pieces children can execute. Here’s a simply handout with words kids can use to say, “Hey, I did it!” Change the words as you need, to suit your classroom or family.
CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE AND PRINT
Love the printables Lynne – so easy to use
You are so kind. Your book is amazing. Practical, simple, really solid advice!