I love playing outside with my super active nephew. He likes to run, a lot. Fortunately, my parents have a HUGE front yard (about an acre of space) before the road, so he has plenty of room to run without causing alarm. However, he’s also two and a half years old, which is not the best age for following directions. That’s why it can be scary when he breaks loose, since screaming at him to stop usually has no effect. He behaves in parking lots and when crossing the road with an adult, but he’s pretty much a wild child when he’s playing. So, I was pretty relieved when I found this post by Lauren at The Military Wife and Mom. Here are her tips for getting kids to listen in dangerous situations:
-It starts with teaching listening skills. Before leaving the house or car, talk to your child. Explain that you are going to be on a busy road. Tell them that you have to look for cars, and running can cause them to be hurt badly.
-Show your child what to do to be safe. Have them hold your hand, and stop and look both ways with you.
-After, be sure to praise your child’s strengths. Compliment them on holding your hand the whole time, or stopping before crossing the road. This will reinforce the lesson!
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