Parenting is rewarding, but it can also feel overwhelming—especially when a child shows behaviour issues that are hard to manage. Whether it’s frequent tantrums, difficulty following rules, or challenges in social situations, these behaviours can affect the whole family.
The good news is that with the right strategies, parents can support their children in positive ways. Here are five practical tips to help guide the journey.
Stay Calm and Consistent
The first step is to remain calm during challenging moments. Children often look to their parents for cues on how to react. By keeping a steady voice and calm body language, you set the tone for the situation.
Consistency is just as important. If the rules or responses keep changing, children can get confused. For example, if you say “no screen time after dinner,” make sure the rule is the same every night. Predictability gives children a sense of safety and structure.
You might also want to create a daily routine that your child can follow. Consistent wake-up times, mealtimes, and bedtime routines provide stability and reduce uncertainty, which often helps minimise behavioural outbursts.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Instead of only focusing on what went wrong, notice when your child does something right. A simple “thank you for sharing your toy” or a high-five can go a long way. Positive reinforcement encourages children to repeat good behaviour because they feel proud and recognised.
You can also use reward charts or small incentives for younger kids. These tools are especially helpful when working on specific goals like finishing homework or following bedtime routines. For older children, verbal praise, extra time with a favourite activity, or even letting them choose the next family activity can be motivating.
It’s important to remember that positive reinforcement should be immediate and specific. Rather than saying “good job,” say “great job cleaning up your toys without me asking.” This helps your child understand exactly which behaviour is being praised.
Set Clear Boundaries and Expectations
Children respond better when they know exactly what is expected of them. Use simple, direct language when giving instructions. For example, instead of saying “behave yourself,” try “please keep your hands to yourself while we’re shopping.”
Boundaries should also be realistic. Aim for rules that your child can understand and follow, based on their age and abilities. For instance, a 5-year-old may need short, simple directions like “put your shoes by the door,” while a teenager may respond better to negotiated boundaries around curfews and responsibilities.
Consistency again plays a role here. When boundaries are enforced fairly and reliably, children learn what is acceptable and what isn’t. Over time, this builds trust and reduces conflict.
Teach Coping Skills
Behaviour issues often come from frustration, stress, or difficulty managing emotions. Teaching coping skills can help your child handle these feelings more effectively.
Simple strategies include:
- Taking deep breaths when upset
- Counting to ten before reacting
- Using words to express feelings instead of acting out
- Asking for help when something feels too hard
Role-playing can also be a powerful teaching tool. For example, you can practice a situation where your child feels frustrated at school and guide them through using coping strategies. When children rehearse these skills in safe settings, they’re more likely to use them when real challenges arise.
Encourage your child to practice these techniques during calm moments so they become second nature. Over time, these coping tools can transform emotional meltdowns into opportunities for self-control and growth.
Seek Professional Support When Needed
Sometimes behaviour challenges are more than what parents can manage alone—and that’s okay. Support from professionals like psychologists, occupational therapists, or behaviour specialists can make a big difference.
Through assessments, therapy, and tailored strategies, professionals can help uncover underlying issues and provide guidance for both children and parents. For example, a psychologist might create a behaviour support plan to manage emotional outbursts, while an occupational therapist could design activities to improve self-regulation skills.
Involving outside support doesn’t mean you’ve failed as a parent; it shows strength in recognising when extra help is needed. Many families find that even a few sessions with a professional can give them new tools, fresh perspectives, and a renewed sense of hope.
Final Thoughts
Managing behaviour issues can feel exhausting, but you don’t have to face it alone. Staying calm, setting clear expectations, and celebrating progress are key steps in guiding children toward better behaviour. With patience, consistency, and the right support, children can learn healthier ways to manage their emotions and actions.
At Wellness Experts, we work alongside families to provide strategies and support that make everyday life easier. Our team offers behavioural support plans, psychology services, and therapy programs designed to meet each child’s unique needs. Together, we can help your child thrive at home, school, and in the community.