Kids will be kids. They are not perfect beings, ones that always behave; therefore, parents must realize every child will misbehave in school or at home at one time or another. Â Yet, if there are constant behavioral problems — repeated time and time again, it’s certainly appropriate to take action. Â Remember, a child can’t learn if he or she spends too much time in the principal’s office!
Off Color Language
A elementary aged child may begin to use inappropriate language. Â Sometimes this is an attempt to test boundaries or to gain attention. Â This behavior should be curtailed as soon as possible. Â Here are a few tactics to try:
1. Â Reinforce positive language use by giving praise.
2. Â Teach a child to express himself or herself using the appropriate words – not expletives.
3. Â Take away privileges if inappropriate language use continues.
Disruptive Behavior
Children who have been labeled as disruptive may simply be reacting negatively to a change in their lives. Â For instance, a child who suddenly begins causing problems in class is battling a confusing situation at home — her mother’s announced she plans to leave her father. Â During this difficult time, reassurance by BOTH parents will help to curb this negative behavior.
On the other hand, a child who constantly causes trouble — and has done so since kindergarten — needs to be evaluated by a professional. Â I vividly remember my friend’s son running in circles at a birthday party. Â As the day wore on, he became more and more agitated; however, instead of taking action, my friend ignored the problem. Â It wasn’t until he was 18 years old that he was diagnosed with ADHD.
If the disruptive behavior is new, try these strategies:
1. Â Give your child extra attention.
2. Â Listen to your child’s answer when you ask how school is going. Â Your task is to find out what’s bothering her.
3. Â Reward positive behavior.
Homework Blues
Elementary children will sometimes refuse to complete homework assignments. Â Even normally studious children can become defiant when it comes to getting down to work. Â While refusing to do homework isn’t a problem if it only happens once in a great while, it can become problematic if a child refuses to do it all the time.
Parents need to understand that establishing homework rules at this age will help ensure success later on, when they are teens. Â Here’s a few things to try:
1. Â Establish a routine. Â For example, let a child unwind for a few minutes after arriving home from school, as 30 minutes of play will help her clear her mind; however, don’t put off homework until she is too tired to complete it. Â After she has had a chance to decompress, it’s homework time!
2. Â Be consistent. Â Don’t let your child talk you out of doing his homework. Â He must do it to learn effectively.
3. Â Reward a child’s hard work. Â Praise your child for doing her homework. Â You may also choose to surprise her with a small “gift” if she achieves a goal. (This gift doesn’t have to cost anything; you can make her favorite meal.