Paying Attention to Attention

So, I'm only one day into my new "parenting skills"....but I've come to realize a LOT! I realize that Natalie was doing many good things, but was overshadowed by my negative attention toward Nolan when he would act up. Here's one example: Last week, I gave them each a sponge with some water on it, and they were "cleaning" for me. Natalie was rubbing her sponge on the floor, doing exactly what she should be doing. Nolan on the other hand was getting more water on his sponge and squeezing the excess water down the wall. Instead of ignoring him and praising Natalie....I directed my attention to Nolan, telling him to stop! I guess Natalie must have felt left out....even though Nolan was getting a lecture from me - it was still attention!

Yesterday, Nolan had about 3 or 4 trips to the corner, and Natalie had 2. This works because when they are in the corner, they get NO attention at all. So if bad behavior is ignored or acknowledged by a trip to the corner, I think they will begin to realize that this is not fun. After Nolan's last trip to the corner, I was feeling a little guilty for being so harsh....but when I went over to him to tell him he could get out and play, I asked him for a hug (which I always do). Instead, Nolan said, "how about 2 kisses and 10 hugs!" So obviously he wasn't too upset with me for putting him in the corner. I'm going to continue to remain positive and keep the negativity away! I even feel like I have more energy throughout the day! Keep your fingers crossed that I can continue this and that the process will ultimately work! I just want my kids to be happy!