Discipline

Being a parent can be hard. We all want kids to learn to behave.

Discipline is a way to teach your child that behavior has consequences.

Kids learn to manage feelings and disappointments when discipline is clear and consistent

It takes self-control, patience and time on your part.

Set up a discipline plan for your family:

• Decide what behaviors are OK to you - what do you want your kids to do?
• Decide what rewards to give for good behavior.
• Decide what consequences follow negative behavior.
• Keep it simple. Let children know what to expect.
• Set clear rules and remind your child what they are and what will happen if they break rules.
• Be firm and consistent. Let caregivers know how you discipline your kids so everyone is doing the same thing.

Quick tips to keep in mind:

• Remain calm. Correct behavior when it happens, unless you're too upset.
• Even though some behaviors can be annoying, most are best ignored.
• Telling your child how to behave is important but showing your kids how to behave is part of being a good role model.
• Catch your kids being good. Give them rewards for the behaviors you want.
• Show your kids you love them. Hug them a lot. Tell them you are proud of them. Praise is powerful. Remember that your children are just learning about their world and need your guidance and support.
• Don't lose your cool. The best way to handle your child's anger is to handle your own. We all lose it sometimes; when that happens, take a time-out yourself to cool-off before going back to your child.

If you'd like to talk to someone, please talk to your child's nurse or doctor.

Helpful Resources

The National Parent Helpline | www.nationalparenthelpline.org If you need someone to listen to you, call the National Parent Helpline®. The Helpline is open to parents and caregivers of children of all ages. Call 1-855-427-2736, Monday through Friday from 10 am to 7 pm PST. A trained advocate is ready to:

• listen to you
• help you problem-solve
• encourage you to take care of yourself
• work with you to get connected to local services
• help you build on your own strengths and continue to be a great parent

If you're interested in reading more about discipline:

• "1-2-3 Magic: Effective Discipline for Children Ages 2-12: by Thomas Payton; Child Management, 1996.
• "How to Talk so Kids Will Listen, How to Listen so Kids Will Talk" by Faber and Mazlish; First Avon Books, 1999.