How to Discipline Children in Public

Sometimes it is hard for parents to remember that discipline is more about teaching than punishment. It is easy to get frustrated when your child acts out in public. Keeping your cool and following these steps can make an outing with your child a delight instead of a disaster.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Set clear boundaries for your child and let him know ahead of time what is expected of him.

2. Stay calm, firm and consistent when disciplining and setting boundaries.

3. Remember that each child has different temperaments and developmental styles. A firm look may be sufficient for some children while others need to hear a strong tone of voice.

4. Correct your child's poor behavior without criticizing or belittling her as a person.

5. Praise good behavior by providing positive reinforcement. Most children want to receive praise. If they know you will praise their good behavior, then they are more likely to follow the boundaries set for them.

6. Offer rewards or incentives for good behavior. One example is to offer a small reward at the end of the outing that is earned by following the rules.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that most people have an opinion about disciplining children. If someone offers advice, do not be offended. Just kindly say "Thank you", and then decide if their suggestion is right for you and your child.
• The purpose of discipline is not to punish. The purpose is to teach the children to think for themselves, make good decisions, recognize right from wrong, respect other people and exhibit appropriate behavior.
• Do not use bribes. Bribes are giving a child a treat in advance and hoping they will show good behavior.
• Do not expect perfection. Your child is in a learning process and needs your help to properly socialize with others outside of their home.
• Many experts feel that giving food as a reward is a bad idea. Consider giving stickers, a coloring book or a box of raisins rather than a candy bar or soda. You could even give out gold stars for a chart, and when the child earns enough stars, they can have a special outing or some other positive non-food reward.