What is it about kids not realizing that it is the parents that are in charge? Honest to goodness kids can really dig their heels in and refuse to do just about anything that they are supposed to. It can get really exhausting.
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You could spend your days screaming at them and punishing them until they do what they are supposed to do or you can find creative ways of tricking them into doing your bidding. I realize that sometimes discipline and consequences are unavoidable and the only way that children will learn, but many times you can outwit them into doing the right thing. And by right thing I mean, doing what you want them to do. Here I propose six ways to get your kids to do what you want.
Image via Thinkstock
Make chores visually compelling
This responsibility chart makes chores look like a whole lot of fun. Kids will want to do them just so they can use the chart. ($19.99, Amazon.com)
Stay away from the scissors
Kids seem to be fascinated by scissors and will gravitate toward them. This scissor lock will keep them from cutting off their own locks.
Make them think it's a game
Whatever it is you want your kids to do, make them think it's a game. Want a back rub? Get them to play cars on your back with a DIY racetrack t-shirt.
Bribe them!
Are your kids into money, but not into washing their hands when asked to? Get them some soap with money in it. ($19.97, Amazon)
Hide the truth
Sure they say they don't like spinach and refuse to eat it, but if you hide the spinach in brownies they're all over it. Consider it a little green lie.
Turn it into a party
Turn brushing teeth into a party. This toothbrush plays two minutes of music by Selena Gomez that can only be heard if you actually have the toothbrush inside your mouth and are brushing your teeth. ($8.97, Walmart)
