Ep #54: Teaching kids to make better decisions

Teaching kids to make better decisions is possible and can be taught.    Often kids make decisions based on emotions, which doesn’t always lead to the best choices. When they make decisions based on emotions, they aren’t always able to see the whole picture.    Using the SODAS Method helps in the decision making process as it shows kids they don’t need to make decisions based on emotions. By working through all the steps, children can see they have options and what is positive and negative about their options.   SODAS is an acronym. SODAS stands for Situations, Options, Disadvantages, Advantages, and Solution.   For each situation, have them come up with three options. Then for each of the three options have them come up with three advantages and three disadvantages. Then looking at their options, they can come up with a solution.    If they aren’t able to come up with a solution, have them come up with new options and do the process again.   The decision making process can be used for almost any situation and can work with children of all ages.   Watch the behavior skill video on SmarterParenting.com to see how the behavior skill works. https://www.smarterparenting.com/lesson/view/decision-making-sodas-method/   For full podcast transcript and show notes visit: https://www.smarterparenting.com/adhd-parenting-podcast/