How to Keep your Child from Being Expelled

In Baltimore, city schools are permanently expelling students for major infractions including arson. For these parents, the public school system is no longer an option. It is important that parents learn ways to prevent these major discipline problems before they get out of hand.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Time
• Willingness to not give up

1. Disciplining a child is never easy. It is important, though, that children have boundaries and are disciplined when they step outside of these boundaries. This is the only way to raise children to be respectful and competent adults. The first step is to develop boundaries.

2. Once basic boundaries are decided upon, it is important for parents to then take the steps to begin enforcing them. If a child is not allowed to back-talk, for example, then each time a child does back-talk, discipline must be enforced. For a child who has never had boundaries before, this type of discipline will be very difficult at first. Take heart though that it will get easier with time.

3. Expect back-lash from the child. A child who has never had boundaries in place before will rebel against the new rules and may act out worse than before. Parents, do not give up! With time and consistency your child will learn the rules and that they are expected to follow them. There must always be consequences for breaking the rules, and it is safer for your children to learn this in the safety of your home than in the world where jail awaits those who break the law.

Tips & Warnings

• Be consistent. Only with firm, consistent discipline will your children get the message that you mean business.
• Never allow violence from your child. Teach your child instead to calm down and handle anger in an appropriate manner.

Resources

• Baltimore Schools Permanent Expulsions
• Preventative Classroom Management