1. Be an Educator
Ask yourself, “How can I most effectively help my child learn self-discipline?”
2. Control Your Emotions
Parenting is a tough job and kids can be very trying at times! But you’ll be most effective when you use “parental objectivity” rather than react to their behavior with your emotions alone.
3. Understand Needs
Is she misbehaving to get attention? Are there other factors in her life that need to be addressed?
4. Be Firm Yet Fair
Set clear limits and standards that are fair. You are the adult; do not allow your child to manipulate you or pull you into arguments. While your child doesn’t need to know the reasoning behind every rule you set, explaining the rules will help him learn good judgement.
5. Be Consistent
Yes, also allow for some mistakes and missteps.
6. Teach Responsibility
Teach your child that he is responsible for his actions and that his choices have consequences.
7. Help Them Choose Right
When your child misbehaves, say without sarcasm or insult, “I am disappointed with how you have chosen to misbehave.”
8. Avoid Labeling
Never call your child names. If a child is labeled as “stupid” he will try to live up to that reputation.
9. Build Positive Influences
Help your child choose good friends.
10. No Shaking or Spanking
Never use violence, shame or humiliation to discipline your child.
11. Use Time-Outs
If a child does not listen or is out of control, send her to her room for a short quiet time, until he has regained his self-control.
12. Set Structure
Help your children set and achieve goals. A Chart is a wonderful idea to motivate kids. Reward them for positive behavior.
13. Use Empathy
“I understand that you would rather play now, but you have homework that must be done first.”
14. Emotional Intelligence
Teach your child to be aware of his own emotions. Ask him “What’s a better, non-hurtful way to express your anger?”
15. Catch Them Being Good
Whenever possible, accentuate and praise the positive aspects of your child’s behavior.
© Life’s Great! Excerpt from Zimmy.com Mini Guides: Effective Discipline for Kids.
Credits: Elizabeth Applebaum