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- Whenever possible, teach rather than punish. The goal
of discipline is to teach children acceptable behavior. Hitting children does not teach
acceptable behavior. It teaches children that "might makes right" and hitting is
a way to solve problems.
- View children's misbehavior as a mistake in
judgement. It will be easier to think of ways to teach more acceptable behavior.
- Whenever possible, make consequences relate to
misbehavior. If a child makes a mess, he/she should clean it up.
- Have behavior rules but make sure they are few in
number, reasonable, and appropriate to the child's age and development.
- Make sure that consequences for misbehavior are
reasonable and clear.
- Don't argue or nag children about rules. If a
rule is broken, remind the child of the rule and the consequence for not following the
rule. When you give a command, speak in a firm voice and repeat the command.
- If your child has many behaviors which concern you,
don't try to change all of them at once. Choose one behavior of concern. Explain why
the behavior is a problem, provide consequences for misbehavior and praise the behavior
opposite of the misbehavior when your child demonstrates it.
- Distract infants and toddlers when they are doing
something you don't like or remove them from the situation. Infants and toddlers do
not understand right and wrong and should not be hit or shaken.
- Use good manners when talking to children about their
behavior. Be sure to use "I'm sorry", "May I?" and "Excuse me" when they are appropriate. Be a good model for your children in your speech and
actions.
- Catch your child being good! Your praise will increase
appropriate behavior. A hug, smile and soft words can also show approval.
SOURCE: Center for Effective Discipline
155 W. Main
Street #100-B
Columbus, OH 43215
© 1998, Center for Effective Discipline
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