Robyn Powley Consulting: helping parents and their children ages 3-21 overcome challenges and increase positive behavior.

I’m a mom of three (ages 18, 20, and 22) and have spent over 30 years helping children and families navigate behavior challenges at home and in schools. While I still consult with schools, I quickly realized that real change happens when parents feel supported right where the behaviors occur—at home. Lasting progress comes from working with families across every environment, making sure strategies work in real life, not just on paper.

This is a judgment-free zone. Parenting is hard, and you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to walk through it with you.

Parent Question:

“My child argues with me about EVERYTHING—even simple requests like brushing teeth or putting on shoes. How do I get them to listen without a fight?”

Answer:

If your child argues about everything, start by making things ridiculously easy. I know some days you feel like you’re sick of your own voice—asking, reminding, and repeating yourself over and over. But here’s the thing: asking your child to do simple, success-guaranteed tasks (like handing you a pillow) makes it so much easier to get buy-in for the harder stuff later. It builds an environment where they’re used to being praised and encouraged. What feels simple to you might not feel simple to them, so start small and stack those wins.

Your child might be perfectly capable of doing all the things you’re asking… but when we rattle off five directions at once, we’re setting them up to fail. Start with less, build success one step at a time, and honestly, ask yourself: how much time are you spending arguing? Wouldn’t you rather use that energy to build cooperation?

Nagging, begging, or negotiating your way through routines doesn’t work (and it’s draining for both of you). The real key is setting your child up for success:

Make sure they actually have the skills to do what you’re asking.

Give directions when you’re right there with them—not shouting from the other room.

Turn off distractions first; no one listens well mid-episode of their favorite show.

Keep your language short, your tone calm, and your face neutral.

And don’t forget reinforcement—that’s just a fancy way of saying anything that happens right after a behavior that makes it more likely to happen again. It doesn’t have to be a toy or treat; it could be a smile, attention, or a break. The goal is to make cooperation worth it.

One last Tip:

Put the harder thing before the preferred thing. “First shoes, then music,” or “First homework, then TV.” Keeping expectations clear, realistic, and consistent is how you get your child to listen without the fight.

Need more help?

I work with families in-home within 30 minutes of Exeter to support families where behaviors actually happen. If you’re farther away, I can still help—either through telehealth or with an additional travel fee.

Reach out at www.robynpowleyconsulting.com to get support tailored to your child and your family.

Robyn Powley Consulting
(603) 770-4532
powleybehavior@gmail.com
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