 Sometimes a child just doesn't want to follow directions. Here is an easy way to motivate them. It's called the first, then, method. We can tell the child that if they first do what we want them to do, then they can do something they would like to do. For example, a parent wants their child to finish eating their food, but the child doesn't want to. The parent knows the child likes to play outside. So the parent says, first, finish eating. Then you can go outside and play. Or the child doesn't like having their hair combed, but they really like stories. The parent could say, first, let's comb your hair. Then I will read you a story. Or if a parent wants to put the child's shoes on, but the child is resisting, the parent might say, first, let's put your shoes on. Then you can come with me to the market. The first, then, method is an easy way to motivate the child by helping them see how following directions will benefit them. When a child learns to follow directions, it helps everyday routines go more smoothly.