Self-control is of paramount importance for everyone. This is something that should be taught from a young age to avoid behavioral problems in children and adults. Believe me that the situation, when a child has one of its temper tantrums in public, is not something that will make your day shine with all colors of the rainbow. This article has self-control tips for parents to help kids’ impulse control.
Fortunately, there are a few ways to teach children to control their feelings and behavior.
Set limits. Even in the first months of life, parents can help their children get the idea of self-control, by setting some limits. For example, if a mother is breastfeeding and a child starts to bite, a mother can say, “Don’t bite! It hurts!”. By explaining, a parent gives a firm reason for why such behavior is unacceptable.
Deal with disappointment. It is important to show children how they can deal with disappointment. For instance, if a child is disappointed because there were no chicken nuggets for dinner, then allow a kid to eat them tomorrow. However, make it clear that not everything is negotiable. Despite teaching children to speak their minds and to make decisions for themselves, there still are times that people have to say “no.”
Control over physical aggression. Unfortunately, physical aggression is very common, especially among children. However, adults must convey the idea to children that aggressive behavior, like hitting, biting, and kicking, is completely unacceptable.
Here are a few self-control tips you can use to help your children learn to control their temper and child’s behavior:
- Immediately tell a child to stop acting out and give them directions as to what they should do next.
- If needed, take a child away from the situation by asking them to leave a room with you.
- As soon as the child starts to calm down, talk about their feelings. Don’t forget to mention how your child’s actions could have made other children feel.
- Ask a child if it is ready to go back.
- Help the child to return and encourage them to react more appropriately.
- If a child reacts aggressively again, then take it out of the room one more time.
- Send the child to another room. It is one of the most common ways of battling bad behavior. By giving your child some time alone, you give it a chance to regain kids’ impulse control back, settle their emotions without adding anxiety and other overwhelming emotions to the situation.
