How to Deal With Kids Who Fight In The Car

Posted Mar 16, 2009 by tundranut / comments 2 comments / Print / Font Size Decrease font size Increase font size

This article attempts to help parent deal with siblings who are fighting and distracting a driver in the car.

Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate

Step1
Before the kids get in the car, have a plan. A book on tape is usually very effective. Although most books are written for a specific age range, there are plenty of books out there that can engage the imagination of most kids over two and most adults, regardless of age. If your family doesn't like stories, music is an option.
Step2
Be prepared to take a deep breath. If the kids begin to argue and possibly punch one another, it's tempting to get involved. From personal experience I've learned that it's best to just let them duke it out. As long as your head is not in the way.
Step3
About 20 years ago a friend who had a lot of kids suggested that I keep a wooden spoon in the glove compartment. This is possibly illegal today. But in those days, it was effective. If the kids start punching one another out, and you're in traffic and don't want to take your eyes off the road, you can reach into the glove compartment, and get the wooden spoon while keeping your left hand on the steering wheel. You don't need to use it; usually just the threat is enough.
Step4
If all else fails, family meetings at home are a good way to create a reality check for the battling siblings. Sometimes kids just don't realize or care how they are affecting the driver. This can be explained when not in the car. On a scale from 1-10, 10 being the most effective, this step is a 2. But it's better than nothing.
Step5
Family therapy with a qualified psychologist. It's expensive, and can be painful. But it's a really, really good investment.

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Comments

wxc6822
wxc6822 said... on March 18th, 2009 at 1:30 PM

It's helpful for me

Jessica
Jessica said... on March 17th, 2009 at 4:31 PM

greatarticle and tips, keep em coming



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