Child Discipline Techniques

Overview

Disciplining a child is the least favorite part of parenthood for many parents. When your child is born, it is hard to imagine your sweet baby would ever do anything wrong. As she grows up, there will be times when you must correct her behavior. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a loving parent includes three elements when disciplining a child: a way to learn from mistakes, a plan for teaching correct behavior and a strategy for handling undesirable behavior. Put together a discipline plan that works for you and your child.

Step 1

Use positive reinforcement techniques when disciplining your child. Instead of reacting strongly to bad behavior from your child, enforce the good behaviors he exhibits. A publication from James Madison University explains that you should reinforce your child's good efforts verbally and nonverbally. When you child asks for something politely, thank him for asking nicely or just give him a big smile so he knows you are pleased.

Step 2

Utilize the effective discipline technique of timeout, which work well for younger school-age children and toddlers. The KidsHealth website says to tell your child that her behavior is not OK and put her in the timeout chair. Sit very young children in timeout for just one minute. As you child grows older, set a timer. If she is 6 years old, set the timer for six minutes. After releasing your child from the timeout chair, sit down with her and discuss why you put her in timeout and how to fix the behavior next time. Give lots of hugs and positive affirmation.

Step 3

Distract your young child from potentially dangerous situations and undesirable behaviors. If your child is trying to play with the electrical outlets, do not yell at him. Instead, turn him away from the outlet and show him an appropriate toy. Engage him until he forgets about the outlet. Take him to another room if he continues to show interest in the outlet. Use this technique for other behaviors, such as snatching toys from other children or running in the house.

Step 4

Give your child choices. As your child grows older, she may argue over what color shirt to wear, what book to read or what cereal to have for breakfast. Follow the choice principle technique recommended by Old Dominion University. This technique gives your child a voice in choosing between two acceptable outcomes. If you are at home and she wants to go through every item of clothing in her closet before getting dressed every morning, do not get frustrated. Hold up two acceptable choices and tell her, "You may wear the red or blue shirt." This technique eliminates conflict and makes the situation resolve more smoothly.

Tips and Warnings

• Engage your child when you discipline them by talking to them about the problem. Never speak negatively about your child in front of other people. Use good behavior charts to encourage your child to make the right choices. Be clear about your expectations of your child's behavior. Outline the consequences of poor behavior to your children.
• Check with your pediatrician if you have concerns about your child's behavior. Never hit your child.