Chapter 9 - Arranging the Environment

Substituting One Activity for Another.

If you see your child is about to do something that you don't want him/her to do, for example, get into your lipstick and make-up, give him/her something else to play with. If you do not offer a child a fun alternative before taking something away from him/her, you might get a reaction of frustration and tears. A child will often accept a substitute without a fuss, especially if you offer it calmly. Another helpful strategy is to offer your child a choice of two other activities. In this case your child is redirected but also given a choice about what he/she wants to do.