Here's another list I stole from my current favorite parenting book (and no, the authors aren't paying me to advertise). This list will give you some ideas of what to do if your child breaks a rule. I promise I will begin posting my own ideas; these lists just help get the ball rolling.
1. Ignore, if it's not a major infraction. Remember, attention is toddler currency.
2. Redirect. Sometimes I feel I spend 99% of my day doing this.
3. Use humor. When I can keep my wits and sense of humor about me, this works amazingly well.
4. Time out. We save this for hitting and talking back, i.e. major infractions.
5. Positive reinforcement. Hugs and praise go a long way, as do rewards like TV and chocolate.
6. Give choices. Our favorite is when it's nap time and she refuses to get up, we say "Do you want to walk or be carried upstairs?" She doesn't want either, but when given the choice, she chooses to walk.
7. Teach consequences, i.e. cause and effect. I think this one is more sophisticated, and Vivi is just now ready at almost 3 years old to begin learning. It is also the hardest for me to follow through on.
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