Every child needs some form of discipline at some time or another. Discipline isn't the same as punishment, according to the Virginia Cooperative Extension. Discipline focuses on the act and how to correct it, while punishment by itself focuses on the child and may leave him feeling like he is not acceptable because his behavior isn't acceptable.
Parents
Step 1
Set reasonable expectations that you child can follow through with. Stay firm to those expectations in order to decrease inconsistencies, which children can detect easily. Explain in detail what you expect and the consequences of not meeting those expectations.
Step 2
Use timeout as a form of consequence for younger children. Establish a quiet place in your home where you child must go when his behavior is inappropriate. Establish a set amount of time your child must stay in time out, in accordance with her age. Young children won't be able to reasonably sit as long as older children.
Step 3
Reward and praise good behavior as much as or more than you punish bad behavior. Watch out for instances of your child doing what he's told to do or doing the right thing all on his own. Be specific in your praise.
Teachers
Step 1
Establish a specific set of rules for the classroom and clearly communicate the consequences of breaking the rules. Allow children to help establish these rules at the beginning of the year in order to help them feel ownership over the discipline of the classroom.
Step 2
Remove a child from an environment that may be causing distraction or misbehavior. Move a child to the other side of the room or away from a classmate in order to stop poor behavior.
Step 3
Talk to children one-on-one as much as possible in order to avoid embarrassment, which could lead to a child fighting or arguing back. Use this one-on-one time as a chance to encourage positive behavior and let the child know you believe that they can act appropriately next time.
Step 4
Get backup when you feel overwhelmed or frustrated with a particular disciplinary problem or a particular child. Remove yourself from the situation if you feel your temper start to flare or feel tempted to do or say something inappropriate.
