Disciplining a child effectively is one of the most difficult, but important, aspects of parenting. Disciplining can be heartbreaking; however, when a child is disciplined appropriately and effectively, it teaches him good behavior and social skills for the future. Behavior problems are a normal part of childhood, and parents need to plan how they will respond to them in their own children.
Step 1
Take a deep breath. When a child is acting out, it is easy for a parent to lose his temper and become angry, which can lead to an overreaction. Children benefit from a parent who models good behavior while teaching them to behave well. Use a firm voice, but do not yell.
Step 2
Be consistent. It is important for parents to treat every offense the same way and not waiver on the repercussions the second or third time. Being consistent shows the child that the parent means business and that she cannot get away with the behavior at any time.
Step 3
Do not physically punish the child. This has shown to be ineffective in dealing with various child-related behavioral issues, according to Keepkidshealthy.com.
Step 4
Focus on the behavior of the child when speaking. It is important for parents to delineate clearly to the child that the behavior is what the parent does not like, not the child. Make it clear that the child is loved unconditionally, but the behavior is not acceptable. Criticizing the child can hurt the child emotionally.
Step 5
Take a break if necessary. If parents feel like they are losing their temper too much or things are escalating, it is fine to take a break from the situation. Losing composure is not good role modeling and may send the child the wrong message.
Step 6
Use age-appropriate punishments. Between ages 3 and 5, timeouts might be more effective. Older children may benefit from other consequences, like taking a break from something that they enjoy. Children sometimes need to experience natural consequences from their actions, therefore, as long as the child is safe and out of harm's way, it is OK for parents to sometimes let them experience what happens after an unacceptable behavior.
Step 7
Give the child some control. It is important for parents to allow their child to have some control over their decisions, according to Kids Health. It can be as simple as offering the child choices, rather than telling her what to do, or by giving her options for the future.
Step 8
Reward the child for good behavior. Rewarding can be just as important as disciplining a child for bad behavior. Recognizing the child for the good things that he does can boost his self-esteem.
