What kind of discipline do children need?

When children  make a mistake, mess up, break things, say something obscene, they don’t learn from pain or shame but they do need us to help them find their way. So, what kind of Discipline do Children need?

Discipline that teaches and helps a child feel capable and responsible. In following a positive approach to parenting, punishmnets are not part of a helpful discipline strategy.

Punishments do not solve misbehaviour (long term) and can create more conflict and disconnection in the parent-child relationship. Research shows that what leads children to become responsible, resilient, moral citizens, with emotional accountability is not being punished. Instead, it is receiving Guidance with empathy, unconditional love,  being involved in problem solving and respected. Authoritative parents, those that are loving, kind yet clear with their guidance grow children that are resiliant and capable.

So if not punishment, then what? While there are numerous parenting tools, alternatives to punishment as ways to help children learn “consequences” of their actions, here are three alternatives to punishment that may help families implement helpful, effective discipline. Discipline that is guidance based and aims at teaching children to do well:

Set Limits: Children need limits, like set bed times so the get appropriate rest, healthy food options to lean how to nourish themselves. Make these limits clear and be consistent. It doesn’t mean you can’t be flexible but it does mean you need to be accountable for your decisions as a parent.

Create a safe home: Young children need to play, learn and explore. They do this by climbing, tinkering, taking a part, building things back together. If you don’t want the sofa to be jumped on, cupboards to be opened and emptied, drawers to be dumped, then lock things, store things away and implement alternatives like a mattress for jumping on.  The other part of creating a safe home is providing emotional safety, children will say the “wrong things”, they may lash out in anger or frustration. Help them feel safe by accepting them, showing empathy, care and giving unconditional love.

Connect and then Correct: When you observe a child getting ready to do something unacceptable or if you dislike a certain behavior, instead of yelling from across the room or waiting to punish after the fact, whenever possible start the process by proactively connecting with your child. If you can relate to their situation, stop something before it starts or engage with your child in his play it can make a real change in your dynamic.

How does this translate to real life? Here is a recent excahnge:

In the evening, after playing a game it is time for getting ready to sleep.

Mom: That was a fun game, I enjoyed playing with you.

Five year old:Mom, I want to play another round of twister.

Mom:  Oh, you really like this game.(connecting) I see that, it is really fun.  Since it’s 7 o´clock, the answer is: you can play again tomorrow,now it`s time to get ready for bed. (States limit)

Five year old: You are no fun mom. I´m going to throw the game in the trash now.

Mom: I can see you are upset (keeping it safe, no accusations or yelling about the trash threat) I bet you really would like to play more, I believe you. Bed time sure came fast tonight. (reassurance, empathy).  You may not throw the game. (Limit)

Boy: Please, just another round!

Mom: 7 pm means time to get ready for bed. . (restating limit, firmly) We can play a tooth brushing game if you would like. (keeping it fun and positive to connect)

The game was put away and the evening routine went on as planned.

Instead of punishing, we can guide.  We can take the time to show our child a better way.

Involve your child, explain, ask questions. Remember that discipline really is about guidance. Sometimes, it is a difficult, stressful, unclear process. And that is ok too. It’s more important that you be willing to show up consistenly and show that you care than to get it right all the time.

The secret of parenting is not in what a parent does but rather who the parent is to a child. – Gordon Neufeld

There will be many moments when you realize this guidance based approach really works.  I bet the more you strive to guide your child in a kind and clear way, the more you will see just how kind, bright and responsible your child really is,  and you will see that taking this guidance approach is very worthwhile.

Peace & Be Well,

Ariadne

What are some times when you believe punishment may be in order? What alternatives have you tried?