- A therapeutic parenting strategy involves turn-taking play, where the child leads first, then the parent takes a turn leading.
- Initially, children may resist when the parent starts giving instructions (e.g., “hand me the block”), but when done with warmth and encouragement, children learn that following directions is safe and positive.
- Praise and positive reinforcement help children realize that cooperation and giving up control can feel good.
- This practice builds trust and flexibility in the parent-child relationship, teaching kids that they can both lead and follow.
- The skill transfers to friendships and school, helping children handle sharing, cooperation, and reducing anxiety-driven control behaviors.
- For anxious or strong-willed kids, this method reduces aggression and oppositional behavior by making turn-taking a positive, secure experience.
Turning Around Bad Behaviors with Positivity
Strengthening warmth and connection with your child can be the first and most powerful step toward improving challenging behaviors.
Janes Craig, PhD, MA, Pediatric Psychiatry
