October 2011-Parent Tip on Changing Childrens' Behavior at School
What do kids need?
Beside the basic needs such as food, shelter, love (not in that order of course), kids typically need four things: 1) Freedom-the ability to make choices about what and how they learn and if a child feels they have not say in the matter, they won't do the work, 2) Fun-if the adults around me don't have fun or can't crack a joke, the child will create their own fun, 3) Belonging-If a child doesn't feel like he/she belongs in the "smart kid" group in class, they will be in the "problem" group and act like they don't care, and 4) Power-If a child does not have a chance to be a leader someway or somehow, they will be the class clown type in the class or at home and get noticed. If you feel like your child is misbehaving in school and you are not sure why-take a look at one of these goals of a child in the classroom. Before you can help your child change their behavior, you will need to figure out what skill or behavior will replace the old/maladaptive one. Then figure out the best way for your child to learn that new skill and who will teach it. Also, perhaps a change in the environment will help or a reinforcer. Lastly, make a plan for what consequences will occur if your child displays that behavior again. Behavior is hard to change and may take time but once you have figured out the "why" of your child's misbehavior, then you can figure out the "how" of changing it.
Thanks!
Jennifer Moyer-Taylor, MSW, LICSW
Thanks!
Jennifer Moyer-Taylor, MSW, LICSW