If your child is misbehaving, try and think why? Are they hungry? Tired? Bored? Unwell?
A misbehaving child can look different for every family. For some it’s a full blown, kicking, screaming tantrum and for others it could be a quiet sulk in the corner refusing to eat their dinner. In all situations it’s important to stop and think about why they’re misbehaving - is there something wrong? It could be that your child behaves this way when they are tired so an earlier bed-time may help.

Show your child they’re special by spending time together. Play, talk, listen and cuddle.
Actions often speak louder than words, so spending time with your child is sure to show them how much you love and care for them. Cuddle up for their favourite bedtime story, let your child tell you about their day or simply play their favourite game with them.
 
Tell your child when you’re pleased with them.
Sometimes children might not know that you are pleased with them unless you tell them. It’s also a really good idea to tell them why you’re pleased, what they’ve done to make you feel happy. It’s a great boost to a child’s confidence to hear about their positive achievements, no matter how big or small.

Kids need a routine – but expect that some days it just won’t work.
Having a routine can sometimes be one of those things that are much easier said than done. But a routine definitely helps when it comes to the day to day busy lives of young families. Make sure your kids have a bedtime that’s the same each night, except of course for those special occasions. There are some days that your routine just isn’t going to happen. This could be because of holidays, visitors in your home or changes at school, so remember that even though routines are helpful, it’s not the end of the world if it doesn’t work all the time.

It takes time for kids to learn – be patient with them – and yourself!
It’s great to encourage children’s learning at any age, but being patient is the key. Kids will take their time to learn, especially when mastering new skills like walking, talking, eating, or drawing. Remember that it’s ok if they don’t get it the first time around and don’t forget to be patient with yourself as well - teaching isn’t easy!

Have as few rules as possible – just stick to them.
Rules are great, as long as you and your kids are clear on what they mean. Having too many rules can be confusing, not only for children but for adults too. If you have just a few clear and simple rules that your whole family can stick to everyone knows what’s expected.
 
Plunket and DIYfather.com offer some great activity ideas for you and your kids.
• Find your all-time favourite song/tune. Play it to your kids and talk about why you like it, and when you first heard it.
• Teach little ones one of your "tricks" - a party trick, your secret way of doing something, or a skill of yours that they might not realise you have! 
• If you have a young baby show them something that haven't discovered yet such as how to blow raspberries,or pull a funny face.
• Plant something that grows, like a tree or a seed, with your kids. Make a wish and enjoy watching it grow in the years ahead.
• Let your kids dress you and style your hair.
• Have a water gargling contest with your kids or gargle to your baby.
• Hop on Youtube and find a snippet of your favourite show from when you were a kid. Play it to your kids.

For more information on parenting and the services Plunket offers, visit www.plunket.org.nz or call your local Plunket, listed in the white pages.

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