Ep 21. DeMello Family
- TVPG
- April 17, 2009
- 42 min
The DeMello family is a young family with three children - seven-year-old Leo, five-year-old Justin, and three-year-old Mariah. The parents, Jeff and Cindy, are struggling to maintain control of their kids and their household. The children have no set routine and the parents are often inconsistent with discipline. Jeff works long hours at his job as a construction worker, leaving Cindy overwhelmed and stressed at home.
When Supernanny arrives, she quickly assesses that the parents are not making their expectations clear and the kids are running the show. Supernanny lays out a plan for the family that includes setting boundaries, implementing a routine, and consistent discipline. Cindy expresses concern over being able to follow through on Supernanny's advice, but Supernanny assures her that with consistency, she can do it.
The first step in Supernanny's plan is to establish a clear method of discipline and a routine for the family. Supernanny teaches Jeff and Cindy the "Naughty Step" technique, which involves placing the child in a designated spot in the house for a set amount of time when they misbehave. Supernanny also suggests that the parents create a chart listing the tasks that need to be done in the morning, afternoon, and evening, in order to establish a routine for the family.
Supernanny observes the family as they implement the new routine and discipline methods. She notices that the parents are still struggling with following through on consequences and discipline. Supernanny takes them through a role-playing exercise to help them practice how to handle different situations with their children.
As the week progresses, the family begins to adjust to the new routine and discipline methods. There are still some struggles, but the parents are making progress. Supernanny encourages Jeff and Cindy to continue to be consistent and to communicate with each other about their expectations for their family.
In the final visit, Supernanny reviews the progress the family has made. The children are more well-behaved and the parents are more confident in their abilities to provide structure and discipline. Cindy expresses gratitude for the tools and techniques Supernanny has given them and says that they will continue to use them. The family says goodbye to Supernanny with hugs and tears, grateful for the positive changes she has brought to their home.