Todays JGMAA Parenting Tips
Raising kids is one of the toughest and most fulfilling jobs in the world — and the one for which you might feel the least prepared. The last 38 years of teaching children and working side by side with child behavior experts we have defined 10 steps that we use both on the mats and at home to make our jobs be more impactful on the mats and at home with our children.
Today’s Tip is on Prompting. Prompting is focused on proper time to catch them doing the right thing and acknowledgment.
Have you ever stopped to think about how many times you react negatively to your kids in a given day? You may find yourself criticizing far more often than complimenting. How would you feel about a boss who treated you with that much negative guidance, even if it was well intentioned?
The more effective approach is to catch kids doing something right: “You made your bed without being asked — that’s terrific!” or “I was watching you play with your sister and you were very patient.” These statements will do more to encourage good behavior over the long run than repeated scoldings.
Make a point of finding something to praise every day. Be generous with rewards — your love, hugs, and compliments can work wonders and are often reward enough.
Soon you will find you are “growing” more of the behavior you would like to see. One thing that we have learned over the years is kids want to do the right thing and be recognized by their parents.
Learn more about JGMAA Kids Program – Springfield & Rochester
