We tend to talk TOO MUCH! We over explain.

You have to go to bed because we have a busy day tomorrow.

You have to go to school. If you don’t go to school you’ll miss too much school work, you’ll get behind.

What do you want your child to do? What will motivate them to do it?

State your expectation and don’t give them their motivator unless they follow through.

• When you finish your food Then you can have your cupcake.
• When your pajamas are on Then you can have a story.
• When your homework is done Then you can go outside to play.

Be clear.

Be consistent.

Walk away from the argument.

Use a visual to reinforce the expectation.