5 Ways to Promote Positive Behaviors in Your Children
Beware of H.A.L.T. - Hunger, Anger, Loneliness, and Tiredness can make anyone feel uneasy. Consider and manage environmental and emotional factors - hunger, fatigue, anxiety or distractions can make it more difficult for children to control their behavior.
Adjust the Environment - When its homework time or dinner time, remove distractions like screens and toys. Establish an organized place for kids to work and schedule breaks. Attention isn’t infinite.
Make Expectations Clear - You’ll get better cooperation if both you and your children are clear on what’s expected. Sit down and present information face to face. Even if they “should” know what is expected, clarifying expectations at the outset of a task helps head off misunderstandings down the road.
Provide Countdowns for Transitions - Prepare children for an upcoming transitions. Announce 10 mins, then 2 min reminder. Then maintain the structure and transition at the stated time.
Let Kids Have a Choice - As they grow up, it’s important they have a say in their own scheduling. “Do you want to take a shower after dinner or before?” can help them feel empowered and encourage them to become more self-regulating.
Free Resource!
We are offering a free resource this month related to the family. It's called Family Strength Spotting and it’s a great way to learn more about your family members.
People Are Talking
"Dr. Andy is incredible – he is receptive, amiable, reliable and incredibly easy to open up to. I came to him after seeing many therapists in an incredibly tough time. Within just a few weeks of seeing him, I had made more progress than all of the previous therapist combined.
He helped me achieve my mental health goals with what felt like small, achievable steps. Through weekly meetings, I reached a point of stability that I had never before experienced. I'd grown emotionally strong in every aspect of my life, and was able to break free from my previous weaknesses. He helped me experience happiness in areas of my life where I did not even know there was happiness. This set him above other therapists I'd worked with.
Dr. Andy is an astute listener and truly cares for people. I could not recommend anyone more highly. I am incredibly grateful to have found Dr. Andy who helped me change the course of my life."
SCOTT B.