What is the most effective way to help a child learn new behavior?

Modeling is the most effective way to help a child learn new behavior because children learn a great deal through observation. When an adult demonstrates a specific behavior, children are likely to imitate what they see. This hands-on approach provides a clear and practical example of the behavior, allowing the child to understand not only what to do but also how to do it.

By observing someone they trust or admire, children can internalize both the actions and the social cues associated with the behavior. This method also helps in building a connection between the adult and the child, as it fosters a sense of safety and encouragement, motivating the child to practice and replicate the behavior themselves.

While describing a behavior verbally, providing books, or ignoring unwanted behavior may have their uses in certain contexts, they do not offer the same direct, experiential learning opportunity that modeling does. Hearing descriptions or reading about behaviors can be useful, but they lack the immediate and relatable context provided through observable actions. Ignoring a behavior, on the other hand, often does not equip the child with the skills needed to improve or change behavior effectively.