Using a Positive approach as a Disciplinary Tool
4th February 2010 by Babies No CommentsDisciplining children is awfully energy consuming. As parents, we are always in control over our children’s behavior, and sometimes it feels like a constant struggle. It doesn’t have to be that way — not always. Scolding and punishment aren’t always necessary, not if we can use games or a kind word and get better results. Here are a few tips on how to do this:
Discipline through playtime:
kids learn so many important values while playing. They learn to obey the rules, play nice and wait their turn patiently. Sometimes, they even learn to handle failure. If all this is not discipline, I don’t know what is. The educational process continues as you play. Teach your kids to play fair, and you will will be pleased to find that you spend a lot less time shouting. Remember, though, not to overdo it. Don’t let them feel that this is “discipline” — for them, playtime should be nothing but fun. Your education should let itself in through the back door, undetected.
Praise them when they deserve it:
The most effective thing I can tell you is this: remember to take note of your children’s good behavior. Express your appreciation and let them know how much you’re proud of them. Little Audrey has agreed to let her friend play with her doll? Praise her: “That was very nice of you, Sweetie.” Jane replaced the light bulb in the shed? Thank her: “Thank you honey, I truly appreciate it”. Look into their eyes while praising, and kneel down to face them if necessary. If you show your children that you are aware of it when they behave properly, they will have less need to misbehave.
Be a proper role model:
Never neglect your own personal conduct. Children imitate their parents. Conduct yourself respectfully, calmly and courteously, and watch them do the same.
Now, I know what you’re thinking, and you’ve got a point: the positive approach does not fit every situation. Sometimes, negative feedback is essential . But if you can avoid it, wouldn’t you?
I do. And it works.
Discover more about disciplining children and children’s behavior.
