Ignoring Technique: A Key Strategy in Positive Parenting Techniques 

Parenting is not easy, especially when children display behaviours such as tantrums, stubbornness, attention-seeking, and repeated demands. Many parents react immediately by scolding, shouting, or giving in to the child’s demands. However, one of the most effective Positive parenting techniques is the “Ignoring Technique,” also known as planned ignoring. When used correctly, this method can help parents manage difficult behaviours calmly and effectively. 

Ignoring does not mean neglecting the child. Instead, it means intentionally not giving attention to certain minor negative behaviours so that they gradually decrease over time. Not every behaviour needs a reaction. Wise parenting is about responding thoughtfully rather than reacting emotionally. 

What is the Ignoring Technique? 

The ignoring technique is a behavioural strategy where parents deliberately avoid reacting to minor misbehaviour, especially behaviours done to gain attention. Children often repeat behaviours that get attention — even if that attention is scolding or punishment. From a child’s perspective, negative attention is still attention. 

When parents stop reacting to minor negative behaviours, children slowly learn that such behaviour does not bring results. Over time, the behaviour reduces. This method is widely recommended as one of the most effective Positive parenting techniques by child psychologists and parenting experts. 

When to Use the Ignoring Technique 

The ignoring technique works best for minor and attention-seeking behaviours, such as: 

• Tantrums 

• Crying for unnecessary things 

• Mild misbehaviour 

• Repeated complaining 

• Attention-seeking actions 

• Whining 

• Interrupting conversations 

However, parents must remember that ignoring should never be used for dangerous or harmful behaviours, such as: 

• Hitting 

• Biting 

• Throwing dangerous objects 

• Running into the road 

• Hurting others 

In such situations, immediate action and guidance are necessary. If a child shows frequent aggressive or extreme behaviour, consulting a child expert or the Best Psychiatrist in Guntur can help parents understand the root cause and get professional guidance. 

How Ignoring Helps Children 

1. Reduces Attention-Seeking Behaviour

Many children misbehave simply to get attention from parents. When parents ignore such behaviour, the child realizes that the behaviour is not effective. Gradually, the child stops repeating it. 

2. Teaches Self-Control

One of the most important Positive parenting techniques is teaching children emotional control. When children learn that not every behaviour gets attention, they slowly develop patience and self-control. 

3. Encourages PositiveBehaviour

When parents ignore negative behaviour but praise positive behaviour, children learn the difference between acceptable and unacceptable behaviour. This encourages them to behave well to receive attention and appreciation. 

4. Builds Emotional Maturity

Children learn that emotions like anger, crying, or shouting will not always get what they want. This helps them become emotionally stronger and more mature. 

How to Practice Ignoring Effectively 

To make this technique work, parents must follow these steps: 

• Stay calm and do not react emotionally 

• Do not give eye contact during minor misbehaviour 

• Do not argue, shout, or lecture 

• Be consistent — consistency is very important 

• Once the child stops the behaviour, immediately give attention and appreciation 

• Praise good behaviour more than you punish bad behaviour 

For example, if a child is crying for a toy unnecessarily, parents should remain calm and ignore the crying. When the child stops crying and behaves calmly, parents should praise the child. This teaches the child that good behaviour gets attention, not bad behaviour. 

Important Things Parents Should Remember 

When using the ignoring technique, parents may notice that the child’s behaviour gets worse initially. This is normal. Psychologists call this an extinction burst — the child tries harder to get attention because the usual reaction is missing. Parents must stay consistent during this stage. 

Key points to remember: 

• Ignoring is not neglect 

• Consistency is the key to success 

• Always appreciate good behaviour 

• Both parents should follow the same method 

• Be patient — results take time 

• Use this method only for minor behaviours 

If a child shows extreme anger, anxiety, hyperactivity, or social withdrawal, parents should seek professional help from a child specialist or the Best Psychiatrist in Guntur to understand the child’s emotional needs and behaviour patterns. 

Final Thoughts 

The ignoring technique is simple but very powerful when used correctly. It is one of the most effective Positive parenting techniques that helps reduce unwanted behaviour and encourages positive habits in children. Parenting is not about reacting to every situation, but about responding wisely and patiently. 

When parents show patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, children gradually learn discipline, emotional control, and good behaviour. Small changes in parenting methods can bring big positive changes in a child’s behaviour. 

Remember: 
Ignore negative behaviour, encourage positive behaviour, and always respond with calmness and love. That is the foundation of positive parenting.