Shopping with a Toddler: Before you go into the store, tell your child how to act, what behavior is and is not acceptable.  They need lots of reminders and they are still learning what is appropriate in what place.  Do not assume that after running around the playground this afternoon, your child will remember to be calm prepare them, this gives you an opportunity to say, “Remember, we talked about this”.

15 minute warning: If you want less fuss, less arguing and more cooperation, try giving your children more transition time.  For instance, if they are about to leave a friend’s house, tell them they have fifteen minutes left, then follow-up with a five-minute warning.  If they have to clean up soon, tell them they have fifteen more minutes to play before it’s time to clean up.  Repeat at five minutes.  This gives them time to get used to the idea and say their goodbyes in their own way.  We certainly wouldn’t want our neighbor to jump up suddenly and say to us, “It’s time for you to leave now.  Say goodby!”

Discuss the next-day’s schedule: Before your child goes to bed, tell them the plans for the following day.  Younger children need to be prepared for what is coming and older children need to plan their activities around the family’s schedule.

Encouragement: A publication by Angela DiCicco and Gail Signor