How to Teach Your Child to Put Something Down Safely

Instead of repeatedly saying “Don’t throw it,” teach the action you want your child to use instead. Choose an obvious place for the item—a bin, table, shelf or designated spot. Then model a short instruction: “Put it down.” or “Put it here.” Show the movement and allow your child to try. If assistance is needed, use the least amount of help necessary and reduce that help as your child learns. Start with easy, low-value objects when everyone is calm. Practice with different objects and in different places so the skill becomes useful beyond one situation. When your child puts something down safely, acknowledge it immediately: “You put it down safely!” This small skill can become an important alternative when your child is learning not to throw objects.