Helpful handout for parents and therapists on dealing with difficult behaviors

MANAGING DIFFICULT BEHAVIORS

1.   If your child is hitting/biting, get down to his eye level, hold his hands firmly and explain to your child that this behavior is not acceptable.

2.   If the negative behavior persists, put your child in time out for several minutes (e.g., have him sit in a chair away from all toys and other people).

3.   Have your child apologize (say “sorry”) for his behavior.

4.   If your child is having a tantrum, make certain that he is not causing harm to himself or others.

5.   Do not pay attention to the tantrum and do not provide eye-contact.

6.    When your child is demonstrating good behavior, provide positive reinforcement (e.g., praise, sticker). For instance, if your child cleaned up his toys upon request, provide positive reinforcement immediately.

7.   Make sure that you do not reward negative behaviors either with tangible objects (cookie) or your attention (whether positive or negative).

8.   If your child throws his toys purposefully, he must pick them up.

9.   If your child purposefully breaks or attempts to destroy toys, the toys should be removed until the child demonstrates that he is ready to play appropriately (this may take a day or two).

10.                     But most importantly… BE CONSISTENT.