^The ANSON BIZ-ZINE
WADESBORO, ANSON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, U.S.A.

      Some children seem to whine all the time. Nothing ever pleases them. They will whine for an ice cream cone. When the parent delivers, they whine that it’s not the right flavor. When the parent provides another flavor, they whine that it’s melting and sticky. No matter what the parent does, it does not please the child. Whining, like temper tantrums, sulking, and clinging, is a negative behavior. If parents consistently reward negative behaviors, they will continue. If parents consistently ignore these behaviors, they will stop.
     Of course, ignoring these kinds of behavior is easier said than done. But be patient. If you do not get involved, you will be surprised at how quickly your child will stop, because he isn’t getting your attention. A sulky child is one who withdraws from any challenging situation. He will not try. A good way to deal with this is to insist on him trying his best, even if you must insist or guide him through the task.
     A clinging child is too dependent on his parents. He cannot do anything by himself. Parents of a dependent child can ignore the dependent behavior, but at the same time make him do things on his own and praise him highly when he does.

Roshunda Blount
Extension Agent, 4-H Youth Development