Tips for getting your child to listen and cooperate

Many parents find it difficult to get their children to listen and cooperate. This can be especially challenging if you have a strong-willed child.

However, there are 15 things you can do to encourage your child to be more to listen and cooperate.

1. Use positive reinforcement.

Rewards and praise can be very effective in getting your child to listen and cooperate. Try offering your child a small reward for listening and following directions. For example, you could give them a sticker or allow them to choose a special activity to do after they complete their tasks.

2. Be clear and concise when giving instructions.

It can be helpful to write down what you expect from your child so there is no confusion. Make sure your child understands what is expected of them before beginning a task.

3. Give your child choices.

Children often feel more in control when they have a say in what they do. Try giving your child two or three reasonable options to choose from. For example, you could ask them what color shirt they want to wear or what food they would like for lunch.

4. Avoid power struggles.

Arguing with your child will only make the situation worse. If you find yourself getting into a power struggle, take a break and come back when you’ve both had a chance to calm down.

5. Use “when-then” statements.

“When-then” statements can be very effective in getting children to cooperate. For example, you could say, “When you brush your teeth, then you can watch TV.”

6. Set limits and be consistent with them.

It’s important to set clear boundaries for your child. Once you’ve set a limit, stick to it. This will help your child know what to expect and feel more secure.

7. Be a good role model.

Children learn by watching those around them. If you want your child to listen and cooperate, make sure you’re setting a good example. Try to avoid yelling or arguing in front of your child.

8. Avoid giving too many instructions at once.

If you try to give your child too many instructions at once, they’re likely to become overwhelmed. Break tasks down into small, manageable steps so your child can focus on one thing at a time.

9. Give your child time to respond.

Count to 10 or 20 before repeating yourself. This will give your child time to process what you’ve said and respond accordingly.

10. Use a calm voice.

Yelling will only make the situation worse. Speak in a calm and assertive voice when giving instructions to your child.

11. Get down to your child’s level.

When you talk to your child, get down on their level so you’re making eye contact. This will help them feel more comfortable and cooperative.

12. Use “I” statements.

Instead of saying, “You need to listen to me,” try using an “I” statement such as, “I need you to listen to me.” This will make it seem like less of a demand and more of a request.

13. Be specific with your praise.

When you praise your child, be specific about what you’re praising them for. For example, instead of just saying, “Good job,” try saying, “Good job cleaning up your toys.”

14. Encourage your child to take breaks.

If your child is feeling overwhelmed or frustrated, encourage them to take a break. This will help them avoid a meltdown and be more cooperative when they return.

15. Seek professional help if needed.

If you’ve tried everything and nothing seems to be working, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor may be able to provide additional strategies for dealing with a strong-willed child.

Conclusion:

Strong-willed children can be challenging to parent, but there are many things you can do to encourage cooperation. Be clear and concise when giving instructions, give your child choices, and avoid power struggles. Set limits and be consistent with them, and use “when-then” statements to help your child understand what is expected of them. Model the behavior you want to see in your child, and avoid giving too many instructions at once. Finally, seek professional help if needed.