5 Easy "tricks" that stop "bad" behavior quickly

Regular naps can squelch "bad" behavior.

Trying to stop bad behavior is like trying to stop a runaway train. If you put the brakes on too far down the line, that train runs right off the tracks. People get hurt. There are major clean up issues. Nobody reaches their destination. On the other hand, if you know a few ways to slow the train down without derailing it entirely, everyone has a smooth ride. Want to stop bad behavior in its tracks? Here's how.

Make your presence felt.

Get up close and personal with kids displaying bad behavior. It's pretty hard for kids to engage in bad behavior when a parent is standing right there. Sometimes all it takes to stop kids from behaving badly is for Mom or Dad to enter the room, sit beside them and read a book. Giving them a quick knowing glance adds to the effect.

Want to stop bad behavior? Take a knee.

Take discipline to another level. Looking down on your child illustrates the fact that you are somehow superior. Remember that boss who used to shake her finger at you? It's the same feeling. You don't want to belittle your child. You just want them to behave. So, sit down, kneel down or whatever it takes to put you on equal ground.

Choices are overrated when squelching bad behavior.

If you don't intend for your child to make a choice, don't give them one. Modern parents often make a big deal out of allowing children to make choices. That's all fine and good until you get to areas where no choice is the best choice. Let your children make small choices, such as what outfit to wear. Leave the big decisions to those who are best equipped to make them.

Make chores reflect interests.

A busy child is less likely to display bad behavior. More so if they're busy doing something they like. Each child has a hidden talent. It's your job to bring it out. Make it clear that they are your hero in that department. Make a point to thank them and praise their hard work. Bad behavior doesn't surface as often in kids with high self esteem.

Recognize the difference between fatigue and bad behavior.

Want to stop bad behavior in its tracks? Learn to recognize a tired child. In my opinion, much of what passes as bad behavior is simply hunger or fatigue. Today's kids are constantly on the go. They stay up later too. I know when my grand-kids get cranky, it's almost always because they're tired, hungry or have nothing to occupy their minds with. They're good kids and I bet yours are too. So, before you jump to conclusions, make sure there's not some other reason behind that cranky, belligerent attitude.

Portions of this post were previously published by this author on a now closed Yahoo property.