Positive discipline -- what am I doing wrong?

JillRock96

DH and I are generally pretty good about phrasing redirection in a positive way, especially for things like throwing food, climbing on things, etc.  I've been trying to be more mindful of how often we say "No," though, and we could definitely improve.  

Here is my problem.  What do you do/say when your DC is doing something that is not dangerous, but that they're not supposed to play with?  For example, so far this afternoon Ava has tried to get my camera and the phone (both on the kitchen table, so not just laying out for her grab) and has tried to push the buttons on the DVD player repeatedly.  Usually a stern "no" the first time she attempts will stop her in her tracks.  I've been trying to say things like "That's not a toy.  Here, play with [insert toy name here] instead."  This leads to her trying 80 more times to get the desired object.  What am I doing wrong? 

firsttogo

I would try saying something like "mom uses the camera" and take it from her at the same time. Then hand/show her something else.

You do have to repeat. I joke that my conversations are like the movie Groundhog Day! Same thing OVER AND OVER!!

 

DavezWife

I don't think you're doing anything wrong. it's just her job not to listen and push you and test.

I remove as much temptation as possible. but in the case where it's the dvd player, easier said than done, you just have to keep redirecting. Or get one of those clear plastic sheilds.

kids that age LOVE to push buttons. Namely yours. lol.