As parents, it can be tricky to navigate discipline and boundaries with our children. We want to encourage good behavior, but we also know that our children are bound to slip up from time to time. That’s where behavior contracts come in - a great tool for setting clear expectations and consequences for our kids. Behavior contracts are essentially agreements between parents and children that outline specific behaviors that are expected, as well as the consequences if those behaviors are not met. These contracts can cover anything from completing homework on time to curfew violations, and they can be a helpful way to encourage accountability and responsible decision-making. To get started, sit down with your child and discuss the behaviors you’d like to address. It’s important to frame the conversation in a positive light and emphasize that the contract is a tool to help them succeed. Focus on the behaviors you want to encourage, rather than just the ones you want to discourage. Once you’ve identified the behaviors you want to address, write them out clearly in the contract. You can use language like “I will,” “I won’t,” or “I promise to” to make the expectations clear. Be specific - instead of “I will be respectful,” try “I will speak kindly to others and avoid using hurtful language.” It’s also important to include consequences for failing to meet the expectations laid out in the contract. Again, be specific - instead of “there will be consequences,” try “if I don’t meet the expectations outlined in this contract, I understand that I will lose phone privileges for a week.” Make sure your child understands the consequences and agrees to them before signing the contract. Once the contract is signed, it’s important to follow through on both the expectations and consequences. Keep in mind that behavior contracts are not a punishment, but rather a tool for encouraging positive behavior. Praise your child when they meet the expectations outlined in the contract, and be consistent with consequences when necessary. Using behavior contracts can be a great way to encourage accountability and responsibility in your child. Give it a try and see how it works for your family!
