If you are struggling to keep your kids a little restrained this summer, have a read of these following tips:
1. Be careful about when you set your boundaries
Avoid setting a curfew or dishing out chores after a day of play when they are exhausted or hungry – they will just rebel against whatever you say. Instead, find a time during the day or even in the morning when they are happy and content, and more likely to accept any terms and conditions you set.
2. Give them a curfew
Whether it’s an hour or two later than their usual one, it is important you set a curfew for your son or daughter. This way both of you will be on the same page and when you call them in at a particular time it won’t come as a surprise. For older kids, giving them the responsibility of coming home at a set time can give them the independence that they so crave.
3. Give them a routine that works
Most kids will want to spend their days out playing when school is off but it is important they have as sense of routine to give their day structure. Get them to come in at lunchtime and dinnertime and have them do a certain amount of chores, like making their bed every day before they go out and play.
4. Set consequences
One of the most effective ways to get your kids to do what they are told is to set consequences. These can be anything from restricting computer time or grounding them if they don’t stick to their curfew or do their chores. If everything is out in the open and your expectations are clear then you should be able to keep any bickering to a minimum – hopefully!
5. Be flexible
Consistency is important, but so is a little bit of flexibility on your part. By all means stick to curfews and chore lists, but do allow for a little bit of room for manoeuvre at times. For instance, if your child wants to go play a game when they are meant to do their chores allow them on the basis that they will do them after or if they have been helping you a little extra that day give them a few additional minutes to play – they will be thankful and more willing to cooperate with you if you do the same for them.
