Good discipline begins at home and spreads, eventually preparing our children for a smooth passage through school and adulthood. Instilling a sense of discipline in kids from the very beginning, would go a long way in enabling them to lead a happy and successful life later. Here are a few ground rules to keep in mind while disciplining kids:
LOVE – Successful discipline can only come when there is a strong framework of love, being wanted, respected, cared for and feeling important. If children don’t have this prerequisite, it is difficult to mould their behavior.
CONSISTENCY ¬–Discipline must be applied consistently and not depend on the fluctuating moods of a tired mom or dad. You need to let your kids know their limits and exactly what is expected of them, and then stick to the rules at all times.
STAYING CALM AND IN CONTROL – The calmer you are, the more effective you will be in disciplining your kids. Be firm and don’t enter into endless arguments or debates or show your irritation at their behavior
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BOOSTING THE BEST – Reward the behavior you want with encouragement, interest, warmth, fun and attention. You can also give more tangible rewards occasionally like a toy or an outing.
UNDERPLAY THE UNDESIRED – Try to dampen down the unwanted behavior. Children usually resort to this kind of behavior to seek attention. You need to become skilled in the art of selective blindness and deafness!
SENSIBLE EXPECTATIONS – Children cannot be expected to behave as adults. Listen to what they are telling us, as their behavior may not need disciplining, but comfort, reassurance and a cuddle!
BE COMMITTED - Remember, it may take a while to reach the desired results, but you need to be committed to the task and not give up. Self-discipline is a vital skill and your kids would be grateful to you for teaching it to them.
KEEP SMILING – Have the sense of humour to laugh at some of their antics. There is no need to be overly strict with kids. The key is to strike the right balance between letting children be and controlling their behavior.