Page 59 - The Intentional Parent

solving and practicing. Unproductive time is time spent avoiding problem solving and practicing.
Turning Intentions Into Actions:
Your parenting interventions (actions) should address productivity and practice but also consider the importance of time.
The environment your child works in influences productivity. As a general rule of thumb I advise parents to avoid “the kitchen table” as a place where homework is done (unless of course space is a a premium and there is no where else to do it). Too many other things happen in the kitchen to make it a productive environment.
Parents should pay attention to “electronic distractions” that influence productivity -- phones, television, music players, etc. By the way, some kids can do good work with these items in the environment, but it should be your call. A kid who has his head propped up with one hand, and listening to a music player with his eyes closed is not demonstrating a productive state of mind, and will not make productive use of his or her time.
The Unproductive Avoidant Child Versus The Unproductive Frustrated Child
We have already discussed the importance of making an accurate appraisal of your child’s abilities when communicating expectations to your children. Now I am going to focus you on a finer appraisal -- the difference between “avoidant” behavior and “frustrated” behavior. Frustration often leads to avoidance, but all avoidance is not necessary linked to frustration.
The Intentional Parent by Peter J. Favaro, Ph.D. 59