As your child grows up and experiences hormonal changes, there’s going to be a lot of attitude thrown around, but nothing can be more infuriating than rude tween behavior. This article is going to help ease the transition into teenage-hood with 6 ways you can fix rude tween behavior.
Set new rules
Being on the cusp of teenage-hood means that you can’t simply use the same rules you’ve used for the past ten years. The changing environment at home is going to require new rules, so set those boundaries in place now rather than later. Emphasise the importance of school work and honesty rather than how tidy their bedroom is.
Change your punishments
Although time-outs might have worked for a toddler, they’re not going to work for a tween. To fix rude tween behavior, change your punishment strategy to something that’s more appropriate. Identify what you should prohibit when your tween is rude, but make sure you always follow through with your punishment. Any small amount of leeway will create difficulties in the future.
Show respect
As your child grows ever more independent, they will want to be treated like an adult. And although in your eyes they’re still your baby, it’s important that you allow them this space. If you can show them respect, then they’re likely to reciprocate. How they respect you is something they’re going to learn from your own actions. Even small things, like apologising when you’re wrong will help your child begin to understand what it means to be respected.
Listen
Rudeness is often a way for your tween to communicate that something is wrong. By showing your tween that you’re capable of listening, you’ll be able to fix rude tween behavior and also bond with them at the same time. Take them out of the home environment for more neutral ground – perhaps a meal or something – and allow them to lead the conversation.
Remain the parent
As tempting as it can be to want to become your child’s best friend, it’s important that you remain in control as a parental figure. Your child needs guidance and direction, something which is only going to have any significance if you’re being the parent. Also remember that you’re setting an example here, so it’s important to be seen as a figure of authority that your child can look up to.
Give them time to calm down
Punishment or bad behavior can often lead to a screaming match between you and your tween. To fix this type of rude tween behavior, it’s sometimes best to let them calm down on their own and in their own time. Especially when emotions are running high, stepping back from the situation is the most effective way of diffusing the tension. After a few minutes to themselves, most tweens will often feel calmer and more collected and you’ll be able to discuss the issue like rational adults.
Resources:
http://www.bettermoms.com/7-ways-to-fix-rude-tween-behavior/
http://www.parenting.com/article/7-ways-to-fix-rude-tween-behavior?src=twitter
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