Are you tired of bargaining with children just to get a little cooperation? Are you frustrated by their lack of respect? If so, then you are not alone. Millions of parents and teachers share your concerns. Here are a few great ideas that will help you get discipline back on track.

 

“Do-Overs” Contrary to popular belief, consequences will not teach good behavior. Only correction and positive practice will do the job. So instead of saying, “If you talk that way to me again, you will go to your room,” try saying, “We don’t speak that way in our home. Now start over.”

Think Prevention There are very few effective strategies that can be used after a child has already misbehaved. Spend your time and energy wisely by working on prevention. For instance, create a “trip box” for the car; a box full of games, coloring books, and magazines that your children can use whenever they are traveling in the car. Consider including a cassette player for each child along with a few of their favorite tapes.

Dealing with Interruptions When children interrupt respond with a signal such as holding out your hand in a typical “stop” motion. Resist the temptation to look at the child. This is important because, in our culture, eye contact initiates conversation. The moment your eyes meet the child will begin to say whatever was on his or her mind.

Temper Tantrums On this issue, research is very clear. You must never give in to temper tantrums. If children get what they want just once out of every ten tantrums, that is enough to keep the tantrums going. In fact they will get louder, longer and more violent. So don’t give in.

These ideas are from the book, Secrets of Discipline: 12 Keys for Raising Responsible Children written by Ronald G. Moorish. According to the Midwest Review, the book is “parent-friendly, practical, effective, and immediately applicable.”