Normal parents have a knack for redirecting a child’s behavior. I am sure you have seen them. They are the parents who can handle multiple kids without any problems. Children don’t fight. They don’t argue. They always seem happy and well behaved. This is the power of redirecting a child’s behavior as an alternative to direct discipline and conflict.
An example of redirecting a child’s behavior
When a kindergarten student walks up to a teacher with scissors, the natural teacher points that child to something that will draw his attention away from the scissors. While doing this, the teacher reaches out and places her hand on the sharp edge of the scissors. When the child is redirected, the scissors are released by the child and are now in the good hands of the educator. There was no conflict. There was no drama. The child is safe and so is the classroom. This is an excellent example of redirecting a child’s behavior.
How does child behavior redirection work at home?
This method of parenting is very powerful. It allows you to get your kids to do what you need to do without the power struggles that can usually exist between parent and child. The way this is done is by using both words and physical direction to get your children to follow your instructions. So, if you ask your children to put on their shoes, then you have to hand them the shoes while you tell them to put the shoes on. This is in contrast to the stereotypical way if you tell your child what to do while they are not participating in the activity. Remember these kids. These children still need education. It may not look like any form of redirection, but it is exactly that. You give them directions away from their current activity and point them in the direction you want them to go.
In addition to using this method to get things done, it can be used to prevent or redirect tantrums. At the beginning or middle of a tantrum, you can redirect your child by giving him something positive to focus on. Sometimes that positive focus is as simple as talking about a routine activity. It could be what they ate for breakfast, what they did at school, what their favorite book was, and much more. The goal is to get the child to think of something other than his tantrum.
Is this good for your children?
For those who think the only way to raise is to use severe punishment – this will not feel very comfortable or happy. The reason is that those who believe in strict punishment do not see other methods of teaching children as effective. However, if the purpose of discipline, not punishment, is to teach a child why not get up and help him learn how to do what you want him to do? You will find it much easier to help them along than to yell at them to finally follow your instructions. Not only will your baby be happier – so will you. It’s not difficult, but it does require you to work.
Where else can this be used?
The concept of redirecting your child is not limited to working with children only. I’m sure there have been times in your life when you wanted to change the subject. Well, the methods here work in all kinds of areas. It works for toddlers, teens, school-age kids, college kids, and even adults. You can think again, you can redirect, or many other methods and strategies. You just have to learn how.