Unhealthy Habits of Children & How Parents Can Overcome Them

When a child’s behaviour is difficult, try to empathise and understand the root cause. Are they hitting others? Could it be because they are exposed to hitting at home or at school, or are they watching content that shows hitting? Be calm but firm. Tell them their behaviour is not acceptable and give them alternatives, like 'Would you like to step outside' or 'colour?' Remove them from the area if they are causing chaos, and take them back after a few minutes' break. Doing these consistently and repeatedly will help them change.

First, try to understand what is causing this bad attitude. In most cases, such behaviours occur only due to constant exposure or over-pampering. Be firm when you say no, even if it upsets them and leads to a tantrum. You need to show them that their attitude will not be tolerated and introduce them to alternate behaviours. You can read or tell them stories that promote a positive attitude, good behaviour, etc.

One of the easiest and most impactful ways to change a child’s behaviour is through modelling behaviour and stories. When you handle them in a calm yet firm manner, you show them how to handle issues calmly. Read them stories that showcase the behaviour that you want them to inculcate. Give them activities that can help them express negative energy, like colouring, model clay, or just running and playing outside.

The very first step is to validate their feelings. Most adults deny the child’s feelings, thinking that if they don’t acknowledge them, the child will forget them. On the contrary, it can foster resentment, shame, or frustration. This, in turn, will fuel more negative thoughts. Next, enquire carefully to understand where such negative thoughts are coming from. Challenge those thoughts by finding evidence for the contrary, and help the child understand it was a misunderstanding. Encourage them to practice gratitude by acknowledging the good things they have or do.