
Reactive Approaches: Take 3
Take 3 is an approach you can use to help your little one follow through with expectations. This approach is a modified version of the 1 2 3 Magic Program.
The 1 2 3 Magic program includes a timeout if the request is not completed by the third request. I like to modify it to help your child complete the request.
Say what??
This is when you give your child 2 chances to follow an expectation. If the expectation is not completed then on the third request you help your child.
You may be saying “Brenda please explain yourself”.
Here goes..
Step 1
You ask your child to do something.
For example: “Joe please go wash your hands for super”
Joe: “NO”
Parent; “Joe it is time to wash your hands, that is one”
Joe: still not moving
Step 2
You remind your child what is expected.
Parent: “Joe it is time to wash your hands, that is two”
Joe: still not moving
Step 3
Parent: Moving towards Joe “It it time to wash your hands, you can walk or I can help you”
Joe: Refused so parent carries Joe to the bathroom
You will find that your child may get frustrated or angry when you start the count. That is a good sign. It means that they understand that you will follow through.
Please let me know if you have any questions about this technique.