Teaching Your Impulsive Child Self Control

1. Catch your child exerting self-control and reward him or her with positives “Great job!” “You rock!” “I really like the way you...” “You should be proud of yourself for the way you...” Make behaving appropriately a positive experience...one that your child will want to repeat. 2. Anticipate trouble zones. Are there predictable times when you know your child generally has trouble controlling his or her impulses? Time the time to prepare your child for these situations. Explain what will happen, who will be there, and specifically the behavior you want to see (ie. We’re going to Grandma’s for a party and all of your aunts, uncles, and cousins will be there. I know you get excited to see them, but you need to stay calm, talk politely, and play nicely with your cousins. Please do not run in the house or be rough with your cousins. If you can do this, we can stop for a special treat on the way home.) 3. Develop Routines. The impulsive child needs structure to function well. Providing a predictable routine at home, as much as possible provides the needed predictability 4. Give warning when you are getting close to a transition. Give warnings when you are getting close to a transition. Allow a ten minute warning warning and give reminders as you get close to a transition time.