How to Give Effective Consequences for Misbehavior

No one likes to discipline their child, but sometimes you need to let a child know that there will be consequences for his actions. Here is how to do it and still keep your cool.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Always let your child know what you expect of her before she does any misbehaving. For example, "Jenny, we are going into the grocery store just for milk and eggs. I want you to be quiet for me and do as your told. OK?"

2. If the child starts to misbehave, let him know that you are going to give him until the count of three to stop or else you are going to punish him. Be specific, such as, "I am going to give you a time out," or "I am going to take away your video games when we get home."

3. Then, follow through. Count to three, slowly, with your eyes on your child. If she quits acting up tell her "Thank you for making good choices" and go about your business. If she doesn't respond after the count of three say, "OK, I gave you a chance to stop and you didn't." Then remind your child of the consequence and follow through.

4. The main thing is to follow through with the consequence. If you don't, your child will come to believe that you are a pushover and can not be trusted. This will lead to more bad behavior. Once a child believes that there are no real consequences to his actions it is very hard to discipline him.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use a clam and steady voice. Don't let your child push your buttons.
• Don't loose your cool. If your child sees that she's getting to you she will know how to do it again next time.

[AmericanMexican]

on 12/27/2008 We use this method but my daughter is a difficult child and we need something new