Self Control

I was reading Be a Fun Mum, a blog I read quite often. I actually love this blog as Kelly often talks about being a positive and proactive mum, which is what Little Billies tools are all about! Quite often I nod in total agreement with her posts.

One of the most recent posts on Be a Fun Mum was about 'hands behind backs' a phrase that Kelly uses to keep her children from touching things in stores, etc.

At our house, we use 'self-control hands'. I know, a very daggy phrase!!! BUT, I wanted our kids to understand (at some point, they are probably still too young yet) that this principle can be applied across many, many areas of life.

Self Control hands is something that we actually practise every day. So what is it? Well, I ask the kids to show me their self control hands and they have to hold their hands together, as if they are praying. By having a physical thing to do, it avoids some of the temptation to reach out and touch, whatever it is that they are suppose to leave alone.

How do we practise this? Well it is really quite simple. Every dinner time, before I serve out the plates I ask the kids to show me their self control hands. There, they sit holding their hands together on the table top. They sit like that until all the meals have been served out to everyone, everyone is seated and we are ready to begin the meal. It avoids them sneaking bits and pieces of their plate while teaching them some good table manners.

This lovely little skill comes in handy too! You know when you are in a shop of breakables.... and how the kids just want to touch and pick up everything.... well, now you can ask them before entering the shop to show you their self control hands (or perhaps you can come up with a better name!) and let them know the expectation of when we leave the shop you can let go.

With a little bit of practise I am sure you will be pleasantly surprised at the self control your child will be able to demonstrate!

Oh, and there is a whole magnet dedicated to self control in the My Reward Chart | Stage 2 pack. There are lots of applications for this magnet, so that your child can be rewarded for their self control!

Can you suggest a better name? Are you actively teaching your child self control, I would love to hear your experiences.