How To Deal With Stubbornness At Play Centres Â
Children do not like others to control their activities and want to have freedom in everything that they do. It is not an easy task because anything can turn into a struggle. This is usually a normal behaviour in children. However, there are times when certain children are particularly stubborn and this can become difficult for parents to deal with, especially in a public space such as a play centre. “Stubbornness can surface at any age and can continue into adulthood. It is important as a parent to learn how to deal with stubborn behaviour to limit the stress it puts on both child and parent,” says Kylie-Jane Shannon, the owner of Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre.
There are some ways a parent can deal with stubbornness. Parents are advised that they should not try to argue with a stubborn child who is always ready to argue back. Do not give them that opportunity. Instead, it is advised to listen to the child and hear what they have to say. Try to turn it into a conversation instead of an argument. If the parent shows that they are willing to listen, it will make the child more willing to listen as well. Never force a child to do anything they do not want to do. This will just make them more rebellious and they will be set on doing exactly what they’ve been told not to do.
“It is important to build a connection with the child. If, for example, the parent wants the child to stop behaving incorrectly on the swings, the parent could swing for a while with the child to show the correct behaviour and camaraderie and then, after a while, ask the child to show similar behaviour,” says Kylie. “Another thing parents can do is to offer their child options. This will allow the child to feel as if they have choices and will make them feel more in control,” adds Kylie.
“Parents should also put themselves in their children’s shoes and try to understand the situation from their side. If something was promised to the child and the promise is not being followed through for a specific reason, then the parents need to explain to their children exactly why this promise could not be kept,” suggests Kylie. Stubborn children find it difficult to accept an outright refusal, so parents should work on their negotiating skills and try and compromise. Parents should lead by example and always try to display a positive attitude. It is also important to develop some rules about behaviour and the consequences that can occur if those rules are not followed. It is important to be consistent with these rules but not rigid as this can also have a negative effect.
“It can be tough dealing with a stubborn child but at the same time it’s important to realise that every child is different. The above tips can be helpful in dealing with stubborn children, but, the most important thing a parent can do is to find ways that work for them as well as for their children,” says Kylie.
Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre continues to dedicate its expertise and delight to serving families within the town of Wallan, Victoria.
Check out their full range of services and current featured promotions at junglekids.com.au.Visit their Facebook page to view all their activities and special offerings. Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre is open seven (7) days a week and is open until 5:00pm on weekdays during the school holidays.
As part of their Play-all-day Single Admission, adults and babies attend free of charge. 12 months to 3 years old attend at $8.50 and 4 years old to 12 years old attend at $10.00.
Written and syndicated by: YDMA News
