How to Effectively Discipline a Child

Clearly expressing your expectations to your child is an important part of effective discipline.

Although few parents enjoy the act of disciplining their children, if administered correctly, it is one of the greatest gifts you will ever give. Effective discipline teaches children that their actions have a direct impact on the outcome of any situation. A child who learns to make positive, healthy choices early in life will continue good decision-making habits into adulthood. Employ effective discipline techniques to ensure your child learns valuable lessons that will last a lifetime.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Patience
• Consistency
• The ability to listen
• Communication Skills
• Unconditional love

1. Consider the areas with which your child has the most trouble, and what might be done to prevent the problem. For example, if your child gets tired and cranky at naptime, refrain from running errands at that time of day to avoid embarrassing temper tantrums in public.

2. Decide on appropriate consequences for negative behavior before a conflict with your child ever occurs. Consequences should be age-appropriate, such as time out for one minute per year-of-age for younger children -- and removal of valued privileges for older children.

3. Clearly express your expectations to your child and present the consequences he will face if he chooses negative behavior. Knowing exactly what the consequences of his choices are beforehand allows the child to consider options before choosing his actions.

4. Issue one warning in a firm, authoritative voice when the prohibited behavior is observed. Remind your child of the consequences that will result if he continues his actions.

5. Enact the appropriate discipline, as previously discussed, following an unheeded warning. Discipline should be as immediate as the circumstances allow, in order for the child to understand that the discipline is a direct result of his choice.

6. Avoid the temptation to give in to tantrums, manipulation or arguments from your child. If your child believes there is a possibility of getting his way, he will employ any tactic that has been successful in the past.

7. Be consistent and be sure that all caregivers are on the same page when doling out discipline. A child must be able to accurately predict the results of his actions in order to make the appropriate decision on his own.

8. Look for opportunities to praise your child when he is doing the right thing. Positive reinforcement provides motivation for your child to behave in the future and lets him know his efforts are appreciated.

References

• Keep Kids Healthy: Effective Discipline Tips
• Parenting Without Pressure: Effective Discipline
• Adoption.com: Effective Discipline