This is the fourth of seven instruction blunders to avoid.
Repeated Instructions: stating the instruction over and over again. Children learn over time that a parent will repeat a command over and over before they actually have to comply. They learn to tune the parent out until the parent is “serious”.
For example:
"Do your homework. I said, Do your homework. Didn’t you hear me? Do your homework.”
“Time for a bath. I said, Get in the bath. For the last time, take a bath!”
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Instructions should be clear, succinct, one at a time (2 max), and with enough time for a person to follow up. Be sure that you have your child’s attention – turn off the TV/video game, make eye contact, wait for an acknowledgement.
Better:
(Looking at the child) "It's 4:30. Time for homework." (Wait to hear "OK" and see them start)
(Looking at the child) "Time to clean up. Get in the bath." (Wait to hear "OK" and see them start)
Post a comment and let me know your thoughts.
Beverly Dolenz Walsh
Life and Family Coach
Imagine Your Life...Then Live It!
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