Monday, December 6, 2010

Positive Discipline Tool Cards - Act Without Words and Non-Verbal Signals

Act Without Words


 At times the most effective thing to do is keep your mouth shut and act.

1) Let kids know in advance what you are going to do.
2) Check that they understand by asking: “What is your understanding of what I am going to do?”
3) Follow through by acting kindly and firmly without saying a word.
For example: Pull over if kids fight while you are driving.  Read a book until they let you know they are ready.


Non-verbal Signals


Parents often talk too much. A non-verbal signal could speak louder than words.  

1) Smile and point to the shoes that need to be picked up.
2) Decide with your child on other signals that would work better than words during a conflict.
3) During a conflict remember to put your hand on your heart to signal, “I love you.”

2 comments:

Jane Nelsen said...

I miss hearing your comments about how you apply the tools with you kids and how they react. :-)

Karen said...

Brad,

I just wanted to thank you for doing this project and inviting us along for the ride. It was a very ambitious thing to embark on I really found it enjoyable and valuable!

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas.

Karen