The Magic List of Alternatives

• Anticipate trouble
• Give gentle reminders
• Distract to a positive model
• Inject humour
• Offer choices
• Give praise or compliments
• Offer encouragement
• Clarify messages
• Overlook small annoyances
• Deliberately ignore provocations
• Reconsider the situation
• Point out natural or logical consequences
• Provide renewal time
• Give hugs and caring
• Arrange discussion among the children
• Provide discussion with an adult