Defusing the Power Struggles

Defusing the Power Struggles
Parent Inspiration

Power struggles got you down? Three tips that will bring out the best in your child's behavior.

What You Need To Know

Kids misbehave for a handful of reasons, most having to do with getting a need met, or trying to exercise some power or control over a situation. These expert tips can ease the struggle and encourage your child's best behavior:

  1. Enlist your child's cooperation. Let go of power struggles, and ask your child to help you instead.
  2. Look at the underlying causes for misbehavior. Ask if your child is craving attention, power, control, or revenge. Think before you react.
  3. Stay positive. Tell your child what you want them to do, rather than what you don't want them to do. "Please bring your plate to the sink," rather than, "Don't leave your plate sitting at the table."

How Can You Help

Reward them for good behavior now. Second graders haven't developed enough maturity to wait for a reward in the future. To thank your child for cleaning up his room, give him a new drawing pad, or take him to see a matinee. 

Recognize your kids for making a worthy effort, not only for tasks completed perfectly. Send the message that effort and improvement are valuable.

When you offer praise, avoid statements that both give and take away. Keep your comments encouraging, without giving an unwanted critique.

For more on this topic, see the complete article:

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