Intermediate, ages 2-11
When children are about to misbehave out of boredom or fatigue, immediately introduce an interesting but acceptable activity. To use this tool effectively, parents have to detect a potential problem quickly and be in a position to introduce an alternative.
Examples:
✔ When she notices her toddler becoming frustrated and irritable, mother prepares a warm bath and lets him play in the tub. He becomes occupied with pouring water and playing with his boats.
✔ A father reads a bedtime story to his children after he finds them roughhousing and jumping on their beds. As they snuggle together, the children quiet down to listen to the story.
✔ While on a long drive, parents involve their children in a game of looking for different state license plates.
Next: Tool 11