Unique Ways to Remind Your Kids to Behave

You're sick of battling with your kids every morning to get ready for school and every night to go to bed. What used to be simple tasks, like going to the grocery store, now seem like a Herculean struggle with your kids in tow. But it doesn't have to be this hard. With a few simple tricks, you can get your kids to behave better.

Use “I” Statements

Your kids have learned to tune out the words “no” and “don't” because it's not what they want to hear. Instead of just saying “no” without a reason, explain to your kids what results you want to see. For example, if your kids are throwing a fit about getting dressed in the morning, you could say: “I get upset when you won't get dressed because it makes me late for work and I get in trouble.” They understand that they don't like to get in trouble, so you won't either.

Set up Reminders

Even though it may feel like you've told your kids to put on their shoes a million times (and maybe you have), they need constant reminders of what they need to do. It's hard for kids to remember to behave well all the time, so you should have a few tricks to help them. One unique way is to remind them of reasons to behave, like Santa. Even when Christmas is months away you can use Christmas decorations to remind your kids that Santa is always watching to see if they're going to be on the naughty or nice list. When they're talking back or fighting with their siblings, use one of their Christmas toys to tell them to be nice so Santa is proud of them.

You also can use timers and games as reminders for your kids. If they always fight about whose turn it is to play on the computer, set a timer for when it's time for them to switch. You can use the same tactic to get them to get ready for school in the morning or get ready for bed at night. Set a timer for one minute and tell them they should have their hair brushed by the time the buzzer rings.

Play Games

Not everything has to be a chore. If you make good behavior fun, you're less likely to have to deal with tantrums, whining, and procrastination. For example, you can bet your kids that you can brush your teeth longer than they can or that you can put on your pajamas faster. Play games like “I Spy” at the grocery store or in the car to avoid fighting and boredom. Make it a race to get in the car or to jump into bed. When your kids are having fun and don't feel like you're telling them what to do all the time, they are more likely to respond positively.

Being a parent requires creativity and patience. If you can find unique ways to remind your kids to behave, the better your relationship will be. Avoid fighting, tantrums and whining with empathy, reminders, and games so your kids understand what you want from them and when without feeling like they're being nagged.