The term child discipline refers to a set of rules or practices to correct disobedience and introduce a code of conduct to children. Discipline for kids is important, but it is essential to follow the right methods for it. Research states that any form of physical punishment has a negative effect on the child, and verbal communication can be more effective, reinforcing discipline in a positive way (1). This post will help you grasp some strategies and tips that can be used to discipline your child.
Discipline Strategies That Work
Discipline does not mean that you punish your child. Instead, it is about teaching them good practices that can work as a backbone through the hardships your child may face in the future. Here are some healthy strategies to promote discipline in children (2).
1. Role modeling
Be a role model for them to look up to. Children tend to learn from their parents, and some good habits may become a part of their lifestyle when they learn them by looking at you.
2. Discuss consequences
Set clear rules about following certain practices and doing things a particular way, such as going to bed only after brushing their teeth or watching television only after completing homework. If those rules are not followed, let your children know the consequences. For instance, you may limit access to a toy for some time. Make sure you share the consequences of indiscipline with the child so that it does not come as a surprise. Remember to call these actions “consequences” and not punishments to prevent creating a negative image of it.
3. Draw boundaries
Discipline comes with clear limits and boundaries. These are age-appropriate limits that are tolerable, beyond which the child could face the consequences. For instance, if the child does not follow an instruction, they get one and final warning, which is the limit beyond which they will face the consequences.
4. Pay attention
If you think your child lacks self-control, you may need to closely monitor your child and pay attention to everything they do or say. Attention is also vital to check any hurdles faced by your child in becoming disciplined and to reinforce any positive behavior.
5. Be good listeners
Discipline does not mean your child needs to be a silent listener to every instruction you give. You need to provide the child with adequate avenues and chances to speak out their thoughts that you must listen carefully. Sometimes, it may give you clues into the reasons why your child is having difficulty following certain rules and how you can tweak your approach accordingly. It also makes the process of disciplining more democratic, letting the child learn self-discipline in the process.
6. Show disapproval
If your child does not adhere to the basic code of conduct, show that you disapprove of it. Discourage the child to pursue such behavior in the future and let them know that it upsets you.
7. Acknowledge their good behavior
When your child follows a disciplined schedule, show that you have noticed it and praise them for it. This will encourage them to adopt this behavior for every action and activity in their routine. It will also reinforce the good behavior, making it more likely that they will repeat it in the future.
8. Keep them busy
It often happens that keeping your child occupied with activities and tasks can automatically make them disciplined. If your child engages in multiple activities throughout the day, they will have to follow a certain schedule to perform all those activities, leading to a disciplined behavior and routine eventually.
How To Discipline A Child
Here are some tips for disciplining your child according to their age category.
Toddler
Be patient: Parents sometimes lose their cool and start hitting a child when they don’t follow their rules. This must be avoided. Be patient and allow the child to explore and understand why it is important to follow discipline.
Preschooler
School-aged children
Pre-teen
Discipline works in two ways. If you don’t practice discipline, you cannot preach discipline to your children. They practice what they see in order for them to pick up good habits. Therefore, ensure that you follow the rules, too. Children look up to their parents in almost every way, and the best way to teach them discipline is by following the same rules and regulations that you have structured for them.
Boundary-based discipline: Letting the child know the boundaries of their actions, such as putting the things back in place or playing but not allowed to throw things. Gentle discipline: Giving them choices and setting rules beforehand to avoid temper tantrums. Positive discipline: Determining the cause of their misbehavior and encouraging them to do better by engaging in the solution together rather than scolding them. Emotion coaching: Making them understand their feelings and acknowledging them. Behavior modification: Giving warnings and sticking to the rules until they correct their behavior.
Pause for a moment, close your eyes and take a deep breath Walk away for a few minutes to compose yourself Don’t engage with the child when they are misbehaving
