5 Effective Ways To Deal With Stubborn Child

If getting your child to do even the smallest tasks requires an exhausting battle each day, there is a good chance that you have a stubborn kid on your hands. But while it may be tempting to firmly dig in your heels right along with them, this will most likely just prolong the frustration for both of you.

So what is a parent supposed to do when the stress of it all has finally reached the boiling point? Well, luckily, we have ten surefire tips that can help.

* Don’t Lose Your Temper

Take a deep breath. Go to another room for a minute or two. Or count to ten. Just be sure to do what it takes to stay calm and not lose your temper. Otherwise, the situation will only further escalate, which is counterproductive to getting the main goal of cooperation achieved.

* Listen to What They Are Trying to Tell You

If your child is being stubborn about not wanting to do something, stop and ask them questions about why they are acting like that. There could be an important underlying reason. For example, if they keep refusing to go to school each morning, it could be because they are being bullied or the teacher is being mean to them.

* Work With Them to Create a Plan

One of the best ways to gain cooperation with a child on specific tasks and goals is to work with them to come up with a plan together. Try making a chart that lists out the chores. Ask the child questions about each one and explain why the tasks and goals are all important.

* Set a Good Example of How to Work Out Disagreements

If a child sees their parents fighting all the time, they will learn to copy the same behavior. So it is very important that they see a good example of how to handle disagreements calmly. That is why parenting experts suggest that any heated debates be reserved for times when the little ones aren’t around. Or, better yet, parents learn to work things out in an amicable manner.

* Stop Arguments in Their Tracks

Sometimes, even when parents are doing everything right, kids simply don’t want to do what is being asked of them. For cases like this, it is best to nip arguments in the bud right away. This can be done by stating firmly and clearly what type of behavior is expected of them. Be sure to mention the importance of respect and how their compliance is necessary for their own safety and well being. Then, tell them the consequences that will occur if they continue their poor behavior.