Faith Filled Family Magazine August 2016 | Page 14

to encourage more desirable
behaviors. Howard Glasser and
Jennifer Easley shared an interesting story of this approach in
their book, Transforming the Difficult Child. According to the story,
the trainers at SeaWorld began
training Shamu to jump over a
high rope by starting with the
rope at the bottom of the water
tank. Shamu was rewarded,
patted, and loved each time he
successfully passed over the
rope even though it was accidental the first few times. Shamu
gradually made the connection
between his actions and the
rewards. Trainers were then able

to gradually raise the rope. Over
time they successfully trained
Shamu to jump to new heights
(Glasser and Easley 1998, pg.
38-39). Using this same concept,
parents can successfully train a
child in desired behaviors.
Throughout the lifespan of every
individual, there will be crossroads where we must decide
whether it is appropriate to assert
individual will or yield to the wills
of those authorities appointed
over us. When a child is rebellious, parents can and must
assert their authority to effect
change in their child’s behav-

ior. With love, faith, determination, and persistence parents
can train a child to be a compliant, self-disciplined individual.
Through dedicating themselves
to this responsibility, parents are
ultimately gifting their child with
a peaceable, prosperous life.
Parents, feel free to refer to the
books mentioned in this article as
resources for ideas in redirecting
your child’s behaviors. They offer
a wealth of knowledge. Also, be
encouraged to seek professional
guidance when you feel some
outside help is warranted.