A child who argues can quickly turn an ordinarily calm parent into one on the brink of an outburst. Discipline for your argumentative child must be swift and consistent to break the habit before it becomes so bad that you are unable to speak with your child without arguing. All discipline should reflect the age of the child, but there are specific ways to bring an end to arguing. Remember that some arguing is actually your child being curious, while other arguing is your child being disrespectful.
Step 1
Interrupt your child and tell her that arguing is not acceptable. Warn her that any continued arguing will result in punishment.
Step 2
Stop your child's arguing immediately and dismiss him from the room. After 5 to 10 minutes, invite your child back into the room to listen to what you were saying. Repeat this until your child is able to listen without interruption.
Step 3
Take away privileges your child enjoys if arguing becomes a frequent problem. Start with short removals and gradually increase the amount or length of the punishment. Be careful not to go back on the punishment by allowing the privilege before the punishment is completed.
Tips and Warnings
- Allow your child to question a rule or request after it has been followed. Often, arguing is your child's way of wanting to know why something is asked of him. Giving him a concrete answer after compliance can keep the arguing from happening again.
References
- "Discipline The Brazelton Way"; T. Berry Brazelton, M.D., Joshua D. Sparrow, M.D.; 2003
- "How to Raise Kids You Want to Keep"; Jerry R. Day, Ed.D.; 2007
