What would you do if your child behaves badly in public?

What would you do if your child behaves badly in Public?

Childhood is the most meaningful phase in a man’s life. As a parent, your sole purpose in life is to make this part your child’s life worthwhile. A child’s mind is one among the most complex creations of nature. Just like you and me, children have their good and bad days.

Good and bad behaviour are a resultant of all the chemical reactions in their tiny brains. There are no set rules of parenting on how you tackle the bad conduct. But, never blame yourself for your child’s poor decorum.

A child is very much aware of the circumstances around him, when in public. Then what could cause an unacceptable behaviour? A few possible causes are:

• When the child needs your attention

• when he or she is uncomfortable

• Fear can also cause rough conduct

• A feeling of guilt

• When they are exhausted

How can you define ‘bad behaviour’?

Throwing temper tantrums in the most unlikely of places, being adamant about buying totally useless things, hitting you or other members of the family all the time- these are some of the actions that can be termed as unacceptable conduct.

Apart from the above-mentioned demeanour; hitting friends and playmates, throwing things to express frustration, unnecessary whimpering and a dominating attitude are not the traits of a well-mannered child.

When you encounter such kind of abnormal temperament in your child, deal it with empathy and patience. It is easier said than done, but raising children is an art that requires immense endurance.

Listed below are a few ways in which you can handle poor demeanour in children.

1. Do not React

The common mistake that most parents make is responding quickly to the situation in a negative way. This can only add to the kid’s frustration. As a matter of rule, never revert to your kid’s tantrum with anger or rage.

Stay calm and quietly move them away from the place. Say nice things to them while you do so.

2. Divert their Attention

When kids do not listen to your instructions when outdoors or when they throw their crazy temper tantrums in public, you can try distracting them with something they like. Offer them their favourite toy or promise to buy them a new book or a toy or clothes.

Speak about taking them to some place they love, only if they behave. This is easier with toddlers and pre-schoolers. Older kids may not fall for it.

3. They probably need your attention

When an otherwise well-behaved kid has an outburst in a public place, he probably requires your attention; immediately. Spend some time with your kid. Sing his favourite rhyme together or tell his preferred story. Play with him for a few minutes.

Speak to him. Coax him. Sometimes, all they may need is a hug and a kiss and reassurance.

These tips may help you wade through a short episode of bad behaviour. In the long run, your child needs your guidance to prevent recurrence of such events.

1. Empathise with your child

Understand your child better. As the children grow up, it is extremely important you have a good communication with them. Let them talk about their day. Find out what bothers them outside the confines of your home.

Help them express their feelings better. Every time they act in an unpleasant manner, speak about it at a later point. Tell them softly that a good child does not behave that way. The best time to speak about it is at bedtime, before or after reading to them.

Introduce games that help build patience, jigsaw puzzles for example. Introduce them to painting and other crafts that require diligence. Gardening is a great option too.

2. Lead with Example

When you are with your child, regulate your own emotions and mind your behaviour. A child observes the parents and his actions and attitude are a reflection of yours. Approach any nerve-wracking situation with composure and calmness when your child is with you.

Build a stronger bond with your child. Compliment the child as many times as you can. Positive feedback is a big booster.

No child is perfect

There is no kid who is extremely well-behaved all the time. A change in the parental approach and minding your own behaviour can help the child put his best foot forward.