Positive reinforcement strategies will help your child learn how to behave and reinforce positive behaviour and actions. Getting a better idea of your child’s emotions and feelings will help you choose appropriate reactions to guide your child’s behaviour. Positive reinforcement is about helping your children react in a positive way to certain situations. A positive and constructive approach is the best way to guide your child’s reactions. In other words, giving your child attention when they react positively, rather than punishing your child when they do something you don’t like.
Children can react in challenging ways in different scenarios, therefore getting a better idea of your child’s reactions is an important step in encouraging positive behaviours. Understanding your reasoning behind your child’s actions will allow you to choose the right strategies to improve their reactions. If you use positive reinforcement strategies at the same time as you work on family bonds and connections, you’re well on your way to helping your child learn about appropriate behaviour.
Understanding why your child is reacting in a particular way, you can then work out how best to respond. Before choosing your positive reinforcement strategies, it’s a good idea to check a few things such as your child’s development and how it could be linked to behaviours. As your child develops, they’ll learn more about actions and they’ll also start building skills to emotionally regulate.
Some positive reinforcement strategies will work better than others for your child, family, and circumstances. You may need to try a few different strategies to work out what best suits your child’s age and stage and your family circumstances. You’ll probably have to use these strategies in combination too.
Positive behaviour management strategies work best when you’re putting time and effort into building a positive atmosphere at home and strengthening your family connections with affection and communication. Positive family relationships help your child feel secure and loved. This is what children need to develop, grow and learn, including to learn about emotional regulation and positive behaviours.
To ensure your child’s positive behaviours, it’s important to look after yourself with healthy food, rest and exercise. This will help you feel good in yourself and make it easier for you to stay calm and respond to your child’s behaviour in positive ways.