The "Clear" Method — Video Vignette Script
NARRATOR (V.O.)
You'll notice how, in the following situation, the parent is a little clearer with his words and actions when trying to get his child ready for bed. Consider how you might be able to change your own words and actions to gain more cooperation from your own child.
A DAD SITS PAYING BILLS AT A DESK. THE SOUNDS OF A VIDEO GAME CAN BE HEARD IN THE BACKGROUND.
DAD (CALLING TO HIS SON):
Michael, it's 9 o'clock. Time to take your shower and get ready for bed!
MICHAEL:
Okay, Dad! Five more minutes...
MICHAEL CONTINUES TO PLAY A VIDEO GAME IN THE FAMILY ROOM. A FEW MOMENTS PASS; THE FATHER GETS UP FROM WHAT HE IS DOING, WALKS TO THE NEXT ROOM, SITS NEXT TO HIS SON ON THE COUCH, AND SPEAKS TO HIM.
DAD (IN A CALM BUT CLEAR VOICE):
Michael, your bedtime is 9:30, so you need to turn off the game and go take a shower. Right now. (ONE BEAT PAUSE; THE CHILD IS SLOW OR DOES NOT REACT) ...or you won't play the game tomorrow night.
THE BOY PUTS DOWN THE GAME CONTROLLER AND GETS UP TO LEAVE. DAD TOSSLES HIS HAIR AS HE WALKS BY.
Thanks, pal.
MICHAEL (NOT THRILLED, BUT NOT MAD):
G'night, Dad.
DAD:
Good night...
DAD WATCHES HIM GO, SMILES... THEN STARTS PLAYING THE GAME HIMSELF!
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Back to the article: Behave Yourself!
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