JCS@WORK Renee Donneson, Social Worker
Parenting can be an amazing and fulfilling experience, but it can come with obstacles and challenges. Parents can experience difficulties in the management of their children’s challenging behaviors, and this can result in stressful situations.
These behaviors can result in tantrums and defiance. It is important to note that when a parent is faced with a child with challenging behaviors, it is imperative to approach the situation with empathy and understanding.
Strategies for parents to manage challenging behaviors:
• Self-reflection
Reflect on your own emotion and reactions when faced with challenging behaviors. It is important to note that modelling calm behavior will facilitate containing the outburst.
• Positive Reinforcement
When the child demonstrates positive behavior, the parent needs to show praise and acknowledgement thereof. This builds self-esteem and resilience
• Clear and Consistent Boundaries
Clear boundaries create consistency and establish rules for appropriate behavior.
• Effective Communication
The use of age-appropriate language to communicate the expectations of appropriate behavior is essential. Active listening facilitates understanding and cooperation.
• Create a Calming Environment
Create a space in the family home that can provide a space to calm down and regulate the child’s emotions and provide containment.
• Encourage Independence
Provide a space to make choices and take responsibility and ownership of the choices. This fosters the child’s sense of autonomy .
• Problem Solving Skills
Encourage the child and provide assistance to effectively problem solve. This will assist the child to explore and develop alternative solutions and reduce outbursts. This is an essential strategy.
• Time and Connection
When the child displays tantum type behavior and has a meltdown, remain close to the child and provide comfort. This provides the child with a safe space to self-regulate and feel secure.
Should challenging behaviors persist, it is strongly advised that parents need to seek professional assistance.
Jewish Community Services is a designated Child Protection Organization and as such we can intervene and assist parents and children with further strategies to address changing behaviors and seek alternative solutions.
If you would like further information from our social workers, please contact the office
on 021 462 5520 or email info@jcs.org.za
Jewish Community Services website: http://www.jcs.co.za | JCS Facebook | JCS Instagram
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