Disciplining your child can be one of the toughest jobs most parents face. Helping your child learn how to express his feelings and wants in socially acceptable ways isn't easy--and different children may do better with different methods, leaving parents without a clear "right way" to tackle the challenge.
Be Consistent
Establish a few core rules that really matter to you, and be consistent about enforcing them. Don't set too many rules--it will be hard for your child to remember them and hard for you to consistently enforce them. Sending a consistent message to your child is one of the most effective methods for successful discipline, according to the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Family Guide.
Be Positive
Praising your child when she gets it right may ultimately produce better results than punishing her when she doesn't follow the rules, according to Circle of Parents, an organization of national and local parenting support groups. Appreciation may occasionally take the form of a special treat, like candy or a new toy, but a sincere "thank you," a hug or a specific compliment is often just as effective.
Choose Consequences Wisely
Discipline is most effective when your consequences make sense for the issue at hand, says the SAMHSA Family Guide. If your child doesn't finish his homework because he spent his work time playing video games, make video games off limits until he gets his grades back up. Consequences that are too extreme or that don't clearly connect to the behavior you want to change can actually make it more difficult for your child to learn the rules.
Establish Routines
Rules are most effective when they're part of a routine, according to Circle of Parents. Setting routines for daily activities, like getting ready in the morning, eating dinner and getting ready for bed establishes a daily rhythm that makes your everyday rules into a habit.
Model Good Behavior
One of the most effective ways to help your child learn good behavior patterns is to show them that you value those behaviors by following the rules yourself. If you want your child to clean up her toys, don't leave your work papers spread out in the living room. If you want your child to wear a helmet when he rides his bike, wear a helmet yourself.
