Disciplining Boo-Boos

It's true that as parents, we only want the best for our kids. We want them to grow as better individuals and a disciplined person. But sometimes, our children's naughtiness push our buttons and we end up doing things we often later regret. By being aware of the dont's, we can try to omit them from future interactions with our children.


CRITICIZING OUR CHILD'S CHARACTER
It is ok to say "I get very angry when you do that", but never add, "Don't be so stupid!"


GIVING LENGTHY LECTURES
Keep your explanations of the guidelines or why their behavior is unacceptable short, simple, and to the point.


PLEADING
"Please clean up your toys. It would really make my day" doesn't cut it. Keep personal pronouns and your feelings out of your requests. "It's time to clean up. When you're done, come downstairs for snacks, please".


MISTAKING AN ACCIDENT FOR DELIBERATE BEHAVIOR
Know the difference between an accident and aggressive behavior, and discipline only the latter.


HAVING UNREASONABLE EXPECTATIONS
It is unfair to think that a two year old can sit quietly at the dinner table for an hour. Understanding your child's emotional development and what is developmentally appropriate will help you distinguish unbecoming behavior from a lack of social skills or simple curiosity.