BIG ANNOUNCEMENT:
Grab my new ebook for only $.99 – TWO DAYS ONLY – MARCH 25th & 26th! Now, back to our regularly scheduled post!
We can easily become overwhelmed with the behavior of our kids; we get frustrated, feel like a failure and get really angry when they continue to do the things we’ve asked them to stop.
Lately, I have been extremely frustrated with a behavior that is going on in our home with our youngest – the constant whining and crying. I took some time to examine this situation, because I knew I didn’t want this to continue and I also knew I was part of the problem of it continuing – we are always part of the pattern!
Today was suppose to be an audio blog, but due to technically difficulties I was unable to download the recording. I hope to re-record the show and place the recording here as soon as I can.
An article that hit home with me on this topic of changing my behavior and the anger that I was allowing to grow in me was by Christy Hawkins over at Simple Homeschool last week, http://simplehomeschool.net/anger/ . She really hit some things in my heart.
As my toddler is continuing behavior that is driving me nuts, I decided it was about time for me to change my pattern in the behavior and create a new pattern. Here are some tips I share that could do the same for you!
Know your triggers
Know what sets you off, what tends to create frustration and build anger that may lead you to lose your cool. For me it is trying to multi-task and not being fully aware of situations until they’ve escalated – because I wasn’t paying full attention.
Pick one Behavior to Tackle
For me right now, it is the whining and crying – not using words that is my battle. I have chosen to pick that one and battle it to the end!
State Your Expectations
Give clear expectations about what you will accept – for me each time I am approaching the situation that typically produces the whining and crying I re-state what he is suppose to do and what I want. This helps a great deal.
Be Ridiculously Consistent
Be on top of the situation – give your full 100% attention.
Stay Engaged
Continue to stay engaged, dealing with all aspects, whether you are praising, helping to find ways to communicate or having to remove the child from the situation, stay 100% engaged.
Take Care of Yourself
You will need to make sure you are caring for your needs, especially during this time of “extra” giving in order to conquer this behavior.
Exercise
Finding the right time for you to get your body moving is important. Feeling energized will help you keep focused and positive!
What is your one behavior you can focus on starting today?
