- Focusing on specific behaviors helps parents and children align on what to work on each week or month.
- Creating house rules clarifies expectations, such as “no hurting each other” or “no insults.”
- Limiting the focus to two key behaviors at a time makes it more manageable for families.
- Visual aids like poster boards or construction paper with written rules or pictures help reinforce understanding.
- Framing rules as “house rules” rather than a single parent’s rule emphasizes collective family expectations and fairness.
Managing Behaviors with House Rules
Creating clear, consistent house rules with visual reminders helps parents and kids focus on specific behaviors together.
James Craig, PhD, MA, Pediatric Psychiatry
