This is the sixth of seven instruction blunders to avoid.
“Let’s” Instructions: instructions that begin with “Let’s” and imply that the parent is going to help the child with the task when the parent’s intent is for the child to do the task alone.
For example:
"Let’s clean your room."
"Let’s do your homework."
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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. If your intent is for the child to do a task alone, be clear about this intention.
“Please hang your clothes in the closet.”
“Time for you to do your homework.”
As much as possible, you want your child to do for her/himself what s/he is capable of doing alone, which fosters independence. If you plan to help or know that your child is still learning a task, it’s OK to say “Let me know if you need help.” or “How about some teamwork?”.
Post a comment and let me know your thoughts.
Beverly Dolenz Walsh
Life and Family Coach
Dr.Bev@sbcglobal.net
Imagine Your Life...Then Live It!
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Monday, April 2, 2007
Ineffective Instructions 5 - Vague Instructions
This is the fifth of seven instruction blunders to avoid.
Vague Instructions: instructions that are not specific. The instruction doesn't tell a person what you want done.
For example:
"Stop that!" "Be good." "Behave!"
"Clean you room." (this is vague depending on the age of the child)
"Clean the kitchen." (again vague depending on the age of the child)
*********************************************************************
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 are as specific as possible to avoid confusion. My definition of a "clean room" as an adult is very different than a 5 year old boy's definition of clean room (think clothes stuffed under the bed). Describe the behavior that you are wanting.
Better:
Sit on your bottom.
Say "Please and Thank you".
Put your hands in your lap.
Put your toys in the toy box and clothes in the drawers.
Put the clean dishes away and dirty ones in the dishwasher.
Post a comment and let me know your thoughts.
Beverly Dolenz Walsh
Life and Family Coach
Imagine Your Life...Then Live It!
Vague Instructions: instructions that are not specific. The instruction doesn't tell a person what you want done.
For example:
"Stop that!" "Be good." "Behave!"
"Clean you room." (this is vague depending on the age of the child)
"Clean the kitchen." (again vague depending on the age of the child)
*********************************************************************
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 are as specific as possible to avoid confusion. My definition of a "clean room" as an adult is very different than a 5 year old boy's definition of clean room (think clothes stuffed under the bed). Describe the behavior that you are wanting.
Better:
Sit on your bottom.
Say "Please and Thank you".
Put your hands in your lap.
Put your toys in the toy box and clothes in the drawers.
Put the clean dishes away and dirty ones in the dishwasher.
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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