Make the expectation visible

CDC recommends realistic, specific family rules that fit a child’s abilities. Start small and describe the behavior you want to see rather than relying on a broad phrase like being good.

An original household exercise

Pick one shared space. Write a short expectation for that space, then imagine demonstrating it. Could another caregiver understand the same wording? Discuss it together before introducing it to your child.

Review your wording

Ask whether your child can understand and carry out the expectation. Plan to remind and notice effort. Change a confusing rule instead of assuming your child understood the first explanation.

TAKE ONE THING WITH YOU

One clear expectation is a useful place to start.