21/02/2026
BAD BEHAVIORS PARENTS MUST CORRECT WHEN CHILDREN ARE STILL YOUNG
Parents should address negative behaviors in children as soon as they notice them, before they grow into more serious and complex problems. Children of all ages may display challenging behaviors for different reasons, but early intervention is crucial. Using positive and consistent discipline while children are still young can help prevent these behaviors from escalating. When a child begins to act out or show disrespectful behavior, it is important to understand the underlying cause early on. Waiting until adolescence makes behavior change much more difficult, as patterns are already well established. Below are some common behaviors to be aware of, along with practical strategies for managing them effectively.
Disrespect
When children consistently struggle to show respect toward you or other adults, it may signal an underlying concern. If your child speaks rudely, uses harsh words, or talks back, address the situation as soon as possible after it happens and try to understand the reason behind their behavior. Keep an open and non-judgmental attitude. Children may sometimes have valid reasons for feeling uncomfortable around certain adults, and shutting them down could prevent them from opening up about their feelings.
Model respectful behavior in your daily interactions. Use polite language such as “please” and “thank you,” and demonstrate kindness and courtesy so your child can learn through your example.
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Defiance
Children who have difficulty showing respect often also struggle with listening. Your child might seem distracted or slow to respond, but they may also ignore instructions because they don’t understand how hurtful or frustrating that behavior can be. If your child deliberately ignores you or does something you have clearly asked them not to do, address it immediately. Remove them from the situation, help them calm down, and explain why their behavior was inappropriate or harmful. Teach them the importance of listening and create opportunities for them to practice this skill in a safe environment. If they resist, encourage them to share what they are feeling and why listening feels difficult for them.
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Entitlement
Although parents naturally want to provide for their children, giving them everything they want can lead to entitlement. Encourage your child to work for or save money to purchase non-essential items so they learn responsibility and value. Teach gratitude by involving them in acts of kindness or community service. You can also model gratitude by including them when you help others, reinforcing appreciation and empathy.
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Tantrums
Tantrums are common in toddlers and preschoolers, but frequent outbursts in school-aged children are less appropriate. While occasional frustration is normal, children should gradually learn healthier ways to manage their emotions. If your child has a tantrum, guide them to a calm and safe space until they regain control. Some children may need your presence and support to settle down. Once they are calm, discuss how tantrums make it harder for them to get what they want and explore better ways they could have handled the situation. Teach them to pause, breathe, and think before reacting the next time they feel frustrated.
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Bullying
Parents often focus on protecting their children from being bullied, but it is also important to consider if your child might be bullying others. If you suspect your child is being aggressive, gossiping, teasing, or insulting others, address it immediately. Explore the reasons behind their behavior and clearly explain that bullying is unacceptable and harmful to everyone involved.
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Lying
All children lie at some point, and younger children may blur the line between imagination and dishonesty. However, as they grow older, lying may become intentional and purposeful, such as trying to avoid consequences. If lying becomes a pattern, address it promptly. Help your child understand the impact of dishonesty, encourage truthful communication, and explain how lies can damage trust and relationships.
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Cheating
Younger children may cheat simply because they want to win, but older children often understand right and wrong and may cheat intentionally, especially in school or competitive settings. Explain that cheating undermines their accomplishments and emphasize the value of honesty and fair play.
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Key Takeaways
Addressing problematic behaviors early will make parenting easier in the long run. The older children get, the harder it becomes to change established patterns. Parents and society should view children positively, recognizing that they want to make good choices. Instead of forcing compliance or teaching children to please others, focus on nurturing an inner motivation to act respectfully and ethically simply because it is the right thing to do.
At Giving Hope Counselling Services, our experienced child and family therapy experts are here to help you address and stop unhealthy behaviours in your children before they become lifelong patterns. We provide practical, research-based guidance to help you understand the root causes of challenging behaviours, build positive discipline strategies, and strengthen your relationship with your child. With compassionate support and proven tools, we empower you to raise emotionally healthy, respectful, and resilient children. Let us walk with you on your parenting journey and restore peace and confidence in your family.
Any time you encounter issues in the family, remember you don’t have to do it alone. Always seek our services by calling/WhatsApp at +*254721240462*/*254733932470* or email us at pkuruga@gmail.com. Also check for more informative articles on our blog on our website www.givinghope.co.ke.
*Peter Mugi Kuruga*
*Counselling Psychologist* | *Marriage and Family Therapist*
*Diploma in Counselling (MFT), B. Com., MA in Sociology (Counselling), PhD (MFT) – On going*
