The Fine Art of Disciplining Other People's Kids

• Issue a warning that if he continues to not follow your rules you will call his parent (and then follow through).
• Separate the kids. Put your child in another rom for the remainder of the playdate, but keep the guest in a central spot you can still supervise.
• Take the child home. Call the parent and explain that the two kids seem to need a break from each other, then ask if it would be acceptable t drive the guest home. Never do so without that permission and never tell a child to go home without calling the parent to make sure she is there.
• Decide if the parent needs to be told. Do realize the child may give his own interpretation, so better it come from you. Use a tactful way. "This is a little problem we had today. I'm sure you would want to know so I wanted to tell you what the kids were up to."

Every kid (even yours) has a bad day now and then and deserves a second chance. But if the guest's behavior continues to be a problem at your home, despite your best efforts, it may be time to tell the child that he may not come over until his behavior improves. Just be prepared to tell his parents the same.

Michele Borba, Ed.D., is an educational psychologist, former teacher, and mom who is recognized for offering research-driven advice culled from a career of working with over one million parents, educators, and children. A frequent Today show contributor she also appears on Dr. Phil, The View, CNN American Morning, and The Early Show, Michele is the author of 22 books including her latest release, The Big Book of Parenting Solutions: 101 Answers to Your Everyday Challenges and Wildest Worries. Visit her daily blog or follow her on twitter.

© Michele Borba. Permission to republish granted by Net Connect Publicity.

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