Using “Positive Practice” to Manage Problem Behaviors in Children and Teens
- Chris Theisen
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Raising and teaching children and teens comes with moments of frustration, confusion, and concern—especially when challenging behaviors arise. While traditional discipline often focuses on punishment, many parents, educators, and therapists are shifting toward more constructive approaches. One powerful strategy is positive practice, a method that turns mistakes into opportunities for learning, accountability, and growth.
In this article, we’ll explore what positive practice is, why it works, and how you can use it effectively to guide children and teens toward better behavior.
What Is Positive Practice?
Positive practice is a behavior-management technique that requires a child or teen to practice the correct behavior repeatedly after making a mistake. Instead of simply pointing out what went wrong, this approach focuses on teaching what to do right—and reinforcing it through repetition.
For example, if a child runs indoors after being reminded to walk, positive practice might involve having them walk calmly from one room to another several times. The goal isn’t punishment; it’s skill-building and reinforcement.
By using positive practice, adults shift from reacting to misbehavior to coaching more appropriate choices.
Why Positive Practice Works
Children and teens often misbehave because they lack skills, impulse control, or awareness—not because they want to cause trouble. Positive practice works because it:
Reinforces the correct behavior immediately
Teaches practical, repeatable skills
Helps children understand expectations more clearly
Encourages responsibility without shame
Builds confidence by showing them they can succeed
Unlike punitive approaches, positive practice emphasizes learning over punishment, making it more effective for long-term behavior change.
How to Use Positive Practice Effectively
To make positive practice successful, it’s important to apply it calmly, consistently, and respectfully.
First, clearly explain the expected behavior. Children and teens need to know exactly what “doing it right” looks like.
Next, when a problem behavior occurs, guide them through practicing the correct behavior multiple times. Keep your tone neutral and supportive—this should feel like a learning moment, not a power struggle.
Finally, reinforce their effort. Praise, encouragement, and acknowledgment help strengthen motivation and self-esteem.
When used consistently, positive practice can transform discipline into a teaching tool rather than a source of conflict.
Examples of Positive Practice in Action
Here are a few real-world examples of how positive practice can be applied:
A teen who speaks disrespectfully practices rephrasing their comment in a respectful tone
A child who forgets to clean up toys practices putting them away properly several times
A student who interrupts in class practices raising their hand and waiting to be called on
Each situation uses positive practice to reinforce the correct behavior, helping the child or teen internalize better habits over time.
Supporting Emotional Growth Alongside Behavior Change
While positive practice focuses on actions, it also supports emotional development. When children feel guided instead of punished, they’re more likely to remain open, cooperative, and reflective.
This approach teaches that mistakes are not failures—they’re opportunities to learn. Over time, positive practice can help children and teens build self-control, accountability, and resilience.
Final Thoughts
Managing problem behaviors doesn’t have to rely on punishment or power struggles. Positive practice offers a practical, compassionate, and effective way to help children and teens learn better choices while preserving their dignity.
By consistently using positive practice, adults can transform discipline into a meaningful learning experience—one that builds skills, strengthens relationships, and supports lasting positive behavior.
If you’d like, I can also create a shorter version, add real-life case examples, or tailor this post for parents, teachers, or therapists.
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