from “Discipline and the Difficult Child”

Gene talks a lot about the power of Persuasion. When you run into strong willed children it’s obvious you can’t make them do anything but you can persuade them. Their pouts, temper tantrums , contrary spirit, open defiance cause you to want to fight their stubborn behavior when often it’s just better to…

1- Agree with them.

2- Fantasize about what they want to do.

3- See if they’ll accept a chance throw of a coin to see which shows up. Heads they get to do what they want to and Tails they have to do what you want them to do!

4. Leave their decision alone for 5 minutes. Even after five minutes. Postpone another 5 minutes (an “I’ll be back” kind of response)

6. Usher, or escort them to another area.

7. Take the entire class outside and leave them in!

8. Bargain with them by setting up a contingency.

9. Use Psycho Drama.

10. Invite the WHO SQUAD in.

– Gene Bedley