Petty fights are normal among children and siblings. Just like us, adults, kids can get worked up too. However, when anger and aggression is expressed by attacking other children or even adults, that’s not considered as normal behavior anymore. These instances can be seen in schools, at home or even in public.
If you have observed that your child has an aggressive behavior, you shouldn’t just ignore it and let it pass because it can lead to worse problems in the future. To help you control, overcome and deal with your child’s aggression, here are 6 helpful tips for you.
1. Learn what triggers the behavior.
Before any other steps, the first thing to do is observe and recognize what triggers your child’s anger and aggression. Identifying the triggers will help you anticipate and prevent this behavior.
2. Be calm but quick.
During an episode of aggression, stay calm and remove your child from the situation. Don’t shout or hit your child because it will just aggravate the aggression. Talk to your child immediately and explain that the behavior is unacceptable.
3. Discuss what happened right away.
This type of behavior should never be tolerated or “let go”. Take time to sit with your child as soon as the aggression occurred and explain that their behavior was inappropriate. Explain to them what the person they were aggressive with might feel or is feeling or put them in that situation. For example, “How would you feel if Kid B hit you?” It is also a must to teach your child how to own up his/her mistakes and apologize after (and of course to not do it again).
4. Give your child attention and affection.
Most of the time, these types of behaviors occur when they are seeking for attention; Especially for older children feeling jealous of their younger siblings. Always take time to give equal attention to all of your kids and never make the other feel rejected and isolated (although it’s unintentional). Always praise your child to show appreciation for their good behavior and achievements. Giving rewards is also a good approach to encourage good behavior.
5. Monitor what they watch and play with.
Kids get easily affected with what they see on TV, movies and video games. So make sure to monitor and discuss with your child that it is not good to watch violent shows because it can affect their behavior negatively. Offer other educational alternatives for them to enjoy instead.
6. Be a good example.
Aside from TV shows, games and movies, you, as parents, also affect your children’s behavior. Set a good example by not reacting aggressively towards your child, your spouse and other people.
Always remember that it is your role as parents to discipline and instill good values to your children. Therefore, no matter how busy you are, always make an effort to mold your child into the best that he can be.
