Mean what you say...

Before you say something to your child make sure you are going to follow through or...don't say it and don't do it! If you come home tired and you are irritated that your child did not clean their dishes and you say, "Johnny, remember, I need you to clean the dishes before you log on to the computer or there will be no computer privilege tonight." How many times have you said this, but then let your teen use the computer because you are too tired to argue with them? Kids know when you are not serious especially if you have shown this pattern of inconsistency. Be sure if you deliver a request, expectation, or demand to your child that you are prepared to deliver the reward, or withhold the reward in the end. Learn more about this strategy using the Gaining Compliance Video at www.smp4kids.com.