Communication and Children's Behavior

During the first five years of a child's life, learning what the 'rules of conduct' and 'expectations' are is a slow, repetitive process by parents and nannies to direct a child to act a certain way. The way we give direction can have unintended consequences. For example, adults may give a child a choice when a direct request is more in line with what they intend to happen.

Saying, "John please wash your hands," is more suitable than "John, will you wash your hands before lunch?"

Most parents and nannies have been in the unintended situation when the child responds, "No, I don't want to wash my hands!"

Children need to know in simple terms what is expected.For more ideas and resources you may refer to Tom Udell and Gary Glasenapp, "Managing Challenging Behaviors: Adult Communication as a Prevention and a Teaching Tool," Behavior: A Beginnings Workshop Book http://www.childcareexchange.com/catalog/product/beginnings-workshop-book-behavior/4000002/