The other day, we went to the supermarket…

There, between the produce and dairy stood a mom in tears…

It didn’t take long to see why she was in tears.

Around the corner stood a boy with puffy eyes, red face and uncontrollable sobbing… all of the signs of a recent meltdown.

People around stared with looks as if to say; “…wow, my child would never do that…”

Or, “she needs to control that boy… he won’t get any better without discipline!”

That ones my favorite.

As if every parent who has a child meltdown wouldn’t resort to “discipline” if it would actually do anything!

His mom peered on, reluctant to approach the journey before her, exhausted from the path she was on.

In these situations, I’ve learned never to offer advice as that’s the last thing a parent wants to hear in the moment.

Really, they just want to be alone… hide somewhere away from judgemental eyes and unintended smirks.

A lot of us have been there at some point as parents. Some of us are there now…

No matter where you are in your journey, one can never stop learning…

Especially when it comes to…

Behaviors.

Many parents that have children who are a part of the Special Education system are forced to handle their child’s behavioral issues at home and even sometimes at school.

Most certainly in public…

At school, there are times that a school counselor can assist with your child’s behavioral difficulties.

Also, certain students that have learning troubles, or (ADHD) attention-deficit or hyperactivity disorder require a behavior intervention plan to be included in their (IEPs) individualized education plans.

However, quite a few behaviors may be able to be diminished by regulating your reaction to them…

Let’s dive into this idea!

Handle Behavior Issues Like A Pro 

Through these tips, it is possible to decrease behavioral issues by utilizing a tool called “redirection.”

Behavior Redirection

The ultimate objective of redirection is to instruct your child to observe and modify their behavior and realizing which behaviors are acceptable and which behaviors are unacceptable.

For your child to be able to observe and modify their own behavior, it is crucial to make sure that your child recognizes why their behavior is problematic.

Some children don’t reflect on their own behavior or think about the consequences that may prevail when they suffer from impulse control issues or have trouble understanding social expectations.

It is vital to explain problematic behavior firmly…

However, this should be done in an unthreatening tone. Some children react more positively to a quiet reminder than a loud, reprimanding tone.

It is crucial to clarify the behavior in precise terminologies your child will be able to understand and then explain why this behavior presents a problem.

Therefore, it is essential to state why your child’s behavior is a problem and what consequences will occur if they present the problematic behavior.

It’s crucial to explain the issues produced as a result of your child’s behavior. They may be irritating you, but one should steer clear from condemning them in a personal manner.

Reiterate And Consistency

Understand, it may be possible that you will have to reiterate this strategy again and again throughout time ’til your child seizes the problematic behavior.

For example, using this strategy, one could say, “Your toys are all over the playroom and not put away in their proper places. I will show you where they should go.”

One shouldn’t say: “If you’re too lazy to clean up after yourself and clean up your toys, I am not going to put your toys away for you.”

It is also important to model proper behavior to your child.

Before reacting to your child’s problematic behavior, it may be useful to relax, take three deep breaths, and contemplate what the most suitable response should be.

Coolly but firmly, clarify the behavior you would like to see. Utilize specific language to define to your child what they shouldn’t or should do.

Try to have a firm but an impassive tone that does not include sarcasm. For example, in this manner, one could say, “Please stay quiet inside the library.” One should not say, (for example), “Shush!”

It is also crucial to demonstrate by your actions and approach that you have faith in your child. Reassure and encourage your child’s good behaviors on every occasion it is possible.

Though you may become irritated by their behavior, it is crucial to remain positive with your child and make them aware that you do have faith in them!

Have you tried this technique before?

If so, what results have you witnessed?