8 Unique Tricks To Discipline Your Naughty Child

“Discipline”- What did you think of when you read the word? In my case,  I would possibly have gone with “punishment” or “set right”.

The idea of discipline being equal with punishment is ingrained in our consciousness. The first thing we think of when we hear the word “discipline” is usually something negative.

However, did you know that the word discipline originates from the Latin word ‘disciplina’ which means teaching, which in turn comes from ‘discipulus’ which literally translates to pupil?

Parents have several ways of disciplining kids. While some parents believe in using punishment to tame mischievous behavior, some others have a calmer, gentler attitude to mellow them down. I believe, as parents, we have to take care that while controlling childhood naughtiness, the kids don’t start harboring anger and bitterness either towards us or themselves.

Today let’s explore “positive discipline” an idea that focuses on reverting things back to the roots – when children do something wrong, instead of punishing them, parents teach and guide them to set the actions right. Few tips below to get started

1. There are no bad kids, just bad manners. We need to understand basic behavior of child  on  first instance when they act weird, or they hit the other child. Instead of screaming or yelling, we will be in much better situation to say “That wasn’t the best action – we do not hit our friends.” This way child will feel guilty about it in their mind, but we have planted the seed that she is not bad but the behavior was bad.

2. Instead of pointing out what the child did wrong, show the child how to set the things right.

3. Teach your child to think ahead. Let them know in advance that a change is coming. You could say ‘we need to leave the playground in five minutes so which swing do you want to play on for the last five minutes?’

4. Talk with child about a wide range of topics. Listen to their views and be willing to discuss different opinions rather than forcing our ideas on them.

5. Just like adults, children like to be heard and understood when they are upset. Hear them out and understand their feelings. When a child is supported to express a feeling safely, they learn that all feelings are OK and that you will keep loving them, even when they’re upset. They also learn that feelings are not something to be avoided or ignored.

6. Each child is unique and every situation is different. The way you parent and help each child to learn will depend on their age, ability and temperament.

7. Helping the child learn how to problem-solve and think about consequences — this builds confidence and skills so they can make bigger decisions as they mature.

8. Being a parent means juggling many competing demands. There can be days when things seem too much, especially if you work outside the home as well. It can be hard to let go of the frustrations of the day and come home to children who want your full attention.

Also read: Importance of Teaching Ethics To Children

Explore the entire collection of articles: Parenting Gyaan

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