by Jane Vee

Created on: November 10, 2009   Last Updated: November 17, 2009

How do you instill positive discipline in your child? Positive discipline is discipline given with love, consistency, clearly outlining rules and a balance of giving rewards.instilling positive discipline effectively will create mutual respect and successful adults. Here are a few suggestions to instill positive discipline.

Discipline is the practice or method of ensuring people obey rules by teaching them to do so and punishing them if they do not, according to Encarta World English Dictionary and the Microsoft Corporation Microsoft Works Word document dictionary. Disciplining in a positive way is just contradictory in terms. The word discipline brings negative thoughts. So, how can you discipline in a positive way?

To discipline in a positive way, you must first set rules and guidelines. Then, once the rules and guidelines are set, the children need to be aware of the rules. The best way for the child to know they have broken a rule is to have a list of rules written where the child can see it.

Disciplining in a positive way includes:

Consistency - If the child breaks the rule, the rule is broken and disciplinary action needs to occur. Every time the rule is broken, discipline needs to occur. Even if your idea of discipline is a stern talking to, the talking to should be given. Have a list of punishments that you can choose from to fit the wrongdoing.

Clarity - Establish the rules and write them down. Go over the rules and read them to the children. If they have any questions, answer the questions. Make sure the rules are understood by the child.

Punishment - You need to set reasonable punishments for the rule that was broken. Always ask a child why he or she did something and base the punishment on the answer. Make sure the child understands what he or she did was wrong and why.

Discipline in private - If your child misbehaves or does something wrong, do not discipline him or her in front of an audience. You want to redirect your child so he or she is out of immediate danger and then if they are older ask them in private why they did something. You will not embarrass them and you will be able to get an accurate answer.

Use Authority - Believe in your rules and your punishments. Do not be wishy-washy or unsure of your parenting. If you are unsure, the child will pick up on your hesitancy and may take all they can.

Rewards - If your child is good reward them. Even if you just praise your children, that will be a reward. Let your child know when they are being good. Disciplining in a positive way also includes letting your child know when they are acting properly.

Love - Discipline with love. Even if your child has done something horrible let them know you still love them, you just do not approve of their actions. If your children know you love them they will try harder to please you.

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