5 Ways to Put an End to Stubborn Behaviour

Dealing with stubborn children is quite daunting for parents. Have a quick look at the tips for putting an end to stubborn behaviour.Stubborn children have strong personalities which tend to make them disobedient and unruly. Many of these kids have great potential for leadership. As a parent you can help your kids achieve greatness in their lives by using these 5 small tips to control and modify their behaviour in a positive way. In this articleEstablish a ConnectTurn Chores into GamesDivert their AttentionInvolve your Child in DecisionsDo Not Lose Your Temper1. Establish a ConnectMost people (including children) immediately feel an affinity towards you when you show an interest in what they are doing. Show a genuine interest in what your kids are up to before you move on to suggest any changes in their behaviour. For example, if all you want to do is to ask your stubborn child to turn off the T.V then ask some intelligent questions first. Say things like “what did that guy just say…it was so funny!!” or “what’s the name of your favourite character in this show”. Once you have established a connection gently suggest “let us turn off the T.V now and we will watch it later”. Your kid is more likely to acquiesce this way.2. Turn Chores into GamesThis works best if you have more than one kid at home. Instead of pushing them to clean up their own mess or do their chores (which they will stubbornly resist) you can try an alternative route. Say things like “lets see who can make the bed up neatly first” or “I bet you cannot finish your dinner faster than your brother”. Turning on the competitive edge in stubborn kids is a good way to make them do what you want them to do. You can also try and turn chores like folding clothes or watering the plants into games that you play together with accompanying music.3. Divert their AttentionChildren with a stubborn streak usually prefer to learn their own lessons. Instead of trying to coerce them (which will make them even more determined not to listen) you could leave them with the option of either understanding your logic or bearing the consequences on their own. If their demands are not reasonable it is better to ignore what they are saying and divert their attention towards something else instead of yelling, screaming or punishing them. 4. Involve your Child in DecisionsStubborn children have stronger personalities that can emerge as dynamic leadership personas as adults if they have the guidance of a wise parent shaping their lives. One way is to involve your stubborn child in decisions.Ask your kids what they want to have for dinner or when would they like to finish their homework. Give 2 or 3 options and help them choose when they have a hard time making a decision. This way your kid will feel that he or she has some control over life and the stubbornness will gradually decrease. However, it is important to maintain that you are the ultimate decision maker and the reign of power is in your hand.5. Do Not Lose Your TemperStubborn children are looking for reasons to pick up fights and vent off their aggression. Losing your temper will only give them an opportunity to shout, whine, howl and throw a tantrum. Speak in a firm, controlled and logical tone of voice. In case your child shouts or talks inappropriately tell him or her gently “we do not use that tone of voice here”. A stubborn child needs a parent with a strong personality so you will have to do some anger management on your own.As mentioned earlier today’s stubborn kids can become tomorrow’s leaders if they are given the right guidance and direction.What are the causes of stubborn behaviour in children? How to deal with stubborn children? Is it possible to put an end to stubborn behaviour of children? Discuss here.