Exasperating … confusing … maddening. Â These words can run through a parent’s mind when contemplating the behavior of his or her elementary aged child. Â Being a parent is difficult, but it can become overwhelming if a previously sweet child becomes too much to handle. Â There is hope, however, as a parent can employ specific tactics to improve a child’s behavior.
Ready to learn how to improve your child’s behavior? Â Then read this informative post.
The first tactic doesn’t take any special knowledge; all it takes is patience. Â To begin begin the process of improving behavior, a parent must LISTEN to his child. Â Instead of focusing on what the child did wrong, choose instead to listen to what the child has to say.
For instance, your son may  begin to “act up” for many reasons.  He could be the victim of a bully, he may feel overwhelmed with school work, he may be afraid of an upcoming change, or he may be reacting to the death of a grandparent.  The only way to find out why there’s a sudden change in behavior is to listen to the child.
On the other hand, if your child has had a long history of getting into trouble at school, please take the time to do some soul searching.  You, and other parental role models, affect the way  your child behaves.  If you disrespect others out of habit, your child will do the same.  If you fly off the handle at the littlest provocation, your child will too.
It may be hard to accept, but a child does reflect what she sees at home. Â If you belittle your spouse, the child sees this trait. Â Instead, begin to think of yourself as your son or daughter’s most important role model. Â By doing so, you will begin to model behavior that will be positive instead of negative.
Also, never underestimate the power of affection. Â Many parents were raised in households where words of praise and hugs were never given. Â (In fact, my own dad hugged me for the first time ever when I was 24 and leaving for graduate school!) Â Do not continue this cycle. Â It didn’t feel good when you were a child, so it won’t feel good to your child. Â It is NEVER too late to shower your child with the love he or she deserves.
Finally, teach a child to be accountable for his or her actions. Â You’ll be surprised how much a child will mature once he or she realizes it’s ok to make mistakes. Â It’s ok to say, “I messed up,” instead of blaming someone else. Â Basically, if a child learns to become accountable, improved behavior naturally follows.
Parents understand a child will behave badly because of a myriad of reasons. Â While we can do our best to rectify the negative behaviors ourselves, we sometimes need the help of experts. Â Never hesitate to ask school guidance counselors for assistance. Â They can offer tips, and they can even give referrals. It is true; it takes a village to raise a child.