Families often ask, “So, how do natural and logical consequences work in real-time?” Here’s a step-by-step example:

1. Consequences are proposed.

When you have finished mowing the lawn, then you may go swimming. (Make sure swimming is something the teenager wants to do.)

2. You accept the child’s decision, follow through with consequences, and give assurance that there will be opportunity to change the decision later.

Since you have chosen not to mow the lawn, you have decided not to go swimming today. You may try again tomorrow.

3. Allow your child the chance to try again after experiencing consequences.

Great! I see you have decided to mow the lawn and go swimming after all.

4. If the misbehavior is repeated, extend the time that must elapse before the child may try again.

It seems you have decided not to swim today. You may try again in two days.

5. If misbehavior continues at this point, the parent should not argue with the child except to assure the child that he or she will have an opportunity to try again and to state the next time (a longer time) the child will have another opportunity.

I see you have not decided to swim today.  You may try again next week. 

Final Thoughts about Natural and Logical Consequences

Parents are reminded to use natural and logical consequences to encourage their children to make good decisions. These strategies must be used with that specific goal in mind. Children benefit when parents allow them to learn from their decisions in a loving and nurturing environment.

(c) 2009, flexiture, monte w. davenport, ph.d.