Health Tip: Help Your Child Kick a Bad Habit

(HealthDay News) — What’s behind your child’s bad habit? Figuring out potential causes is key to breaking the bad behavior.

The University of Michigan Health System advises:

  • Offer praise when your child engages in good behavior. But consider that your child may need to be older to want to stop the bad behavior and gain the motivation to do it.
  • Don’t push your child to make too many changes at once. Focus on one or two behaviors that are the most bothersome.
  • Think about what may be bothering your child. Discuss the behavior and listen carefully to what your child says.
  • Redirect your child when you see her engaging in the bad behavior. Set rules that are fair, firm and kind, and always follow through.