How to Promote Good Behavior in Kids

In this premiere episode, Dr. Dave Anderson and Dr. Caroline Mendel dive into one of the most common questions parents ask: How can I get my child to behave better?

From toddlers to teens, they explore what really works when it comes to promoting positive behavior — and why quick fixes and harsh discipline aren’t the answer. Instead, they break down a proven, evidence-based approach that starts with the foundation of a strong parent-child relationship.

Guest: Dr. Caroline Mendel, Former Senior Director of Clinical Services at the Child Mind Institute

You’ll learn:

• Why quality time matters more than you think
• How to “catch them being good” — and why that phrase is more than a cliché
• What the behavior pyramid is (and how to use it)
• Why consistency beats intensity every time
• What actually makes time-outs effective
• And how to handle common behavior challenges like sibling conflict and screen time battles

This episode is packed with realistic strategies, expert insight, and personal stories that remind us: there’s no magic solution — but there is a better way.

Resources Mentioned

From the Child Mind Institute:

• Positive Parenting, Thriving Kids Guide to Good Behavior
• Complete Guide to Managing Behavior Problems
• Behavior Problems Resource Center

Books We Recommend:

• Raising Human Beings by Dr. Ross Greene
• The Everyday Parenting Toolkit by Dr. Alan Kazdin
• Evidence-Based Parenting Books – Behavioral Collective

Parenting Programs & Online Tools:

• PAXIS Institute School-Based Programs
• Incredible Years Parenting Course
• FAST Resources for Parents – Seattle Children’s Hospital
• Caregiver Handout on Supporting Teenagers – Seattle Children’s
• Encouraging Positive Behavior: Tips – Raising Children Network
• Encouraging Positive Behavior – Children’s Hospital of Orange County
• Mental Health Minute Series – American Academy of Pediatrics

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