Positive Discipline Parenting Tools

1. Children learn from experiences, not lectures

Children may not die without encouragement, but they will certainly wither.

Experiential learning. Children develop beliefs about themselves and the world through their experiences, not through lectures or punishments. Parents should focus on providing opportunities for children to learn through natural consequences and problem-solving, rather than trying to control their behavior through rewards or punishments. This approach helps children develop a sense of capability and responsibility.

Encouragement vs. praise. Encouragement focuses on effort and improvement, while praise often creates dependency on external validation. Instead of saying "Good job!" try "You worked hard on that." This helps children develop intrinsic motivation and self-evaluation skills. Encourage children to reflect on their experiences and draw their own conclusions, fostering critical thinking and self-awareness.

2. Encourage problem-solving instead of punishment

Positive Discipline is an encouragement model.

Focus on solutions. Rather than imposing punishments or consequences, involve children in finding solutions to problems. This approach teaches valuable life skills such as critical thinking, cooperation, and responsibility. During family meetings or one-on-one discussions, guide children through the problem-solving process:

• Identify the problem
• Brainstorm possible solutions
• Evaluate the pros and cons of each solution
• Choose and implement a solution
• Follow up and adjust if needed

Mistakes as opportunities. Frame mistakes as learning opportunities rather than reasons for punishment. This mindset helps children develop resilience and a growth mindset. When a child makes a mistake, use the 3 R's of Recovery:

• Recognize the mistake
• Reconcile by apologizing if necessary
• Resolve the problem by finding a solution together

3. Connect before correcting behavior

Children do better when they feel better—and so do you.

Establish connection. Before addressing misbehavior, take time to connect with your child emotionally. This could involve:

• Giving a hug
• Acknowledging their feelings
• Spending quality time together
• Listening without judgment

Timing matters. Wait until both you and your child are calm before addressing behavioral issues. This allows for more productive conversations and problem-solving. Use techniques like positive time-out or taking deep breaths to help regulate emotions before addressing the situation.

4. Validate feelings to build trust and understanding

Feelings give us valuable information about who we are and what is important to us.

Acknowledge emotions. Validate your child's feelings without trying to fix or change them. This helps children feel understood and develops emotional intelligence. Use phrases like:

• "I can see you're really upset about this."
• "It sounds like you're feeling frustrated."
• "That must have been disappointing for you."

Separate feelings from actions. Teach children that all feelings are acceptable, but not all actions are. Help them find appropriate ways to express their emotions constructively. For example, "It's okay to feel angry, but it's not okay to hit. Let's find a better way to express your anger."

5. Involve children in creating solutions and routines

Children are great problem solvers when we give them the opportunity to brainstorm and come up with solutions.

Collaborative problem-solving. Involve children in creating solutions to family challenges. This increases their buy-in and teaches valuable life skills. Use family meetings or one-on-one discussions to brainstorm ideas and come to agreements together.

Create routine charts. Work with children to create visual routine charts for daily tasks like morning preparations or bedtime. This promotes independence and reduces power struggles. Steps for creating effective routine charts:

1. Brainstorm necessary tasks together
2. Let the child choose the order of tasks
3. Use pictures or words depending on the child's age
4. Review and adjust the routine as needed

6. Model the behavior you want to see

Example is the best teacher.

Self-regulation. Practice controlling your own behavior and emotions before expecting your children to do the same. This includes managing your tone of voice, body language, and reactions to stressful situations.

Apologize and make amends. When you make mistakes, model how to take responsibility and make amends. This teaches children that mistakes are opportunities for learning and growth.

Demonstrate problem-solving. Talk through your own problem-solving process out loud, showing children how to approach challenges calmly and systematically.

7. Use natural consequences to teach responsibility

Suffering is not a necessary characteristic of logical consequences.

Allow for learning experiences. Let children experience the natural consequences of their choices when it's safe to do so. This teaches cause-and-effect relationships and promotes responsibility.

Examples of natural consequences:

• Not wearing a coat → Feeling cold
• Not doing homework → Getting a lower grade
• Forgetting lunch → Being hungry at school

Avoid lectures. Resist the urge to say "I told you so" or lecture about the consequences. Instead, offer empathy and support in finding solutions for the future.

8. Foster capability through age-appropriate tasks

Never do for a child what he can do for himself.

Encourage independence. Allow children to do tasks they're capable of, even if it takes longer or isn't done perfectly. This builds confidence and life skills.

Age-appropriate tasks:

• Toddlers: Putting toys away, helping set the table
• Preschoolers: Dressing themselves, simple food preparation
• School-age: Making their own lunches, doing laundry
• Teenagers: Cooking meals, managing their own schedules

Take time for training. Teach children new skills step-by-step, allowing for practice and mistakes. Be patient and offer encouragement throughout the learning process.

9. Limit screen time and encourage alternative activities

Screen time is addictive and interferes with relationships.

Set clear boundaries. Establish and enforce limits on screen time for all family members. This includes TV, computers, tablets, and smartphones.

Offer alternatives. Encourage engaging, non-screen activities such as:

• Reading books
• Playing board games
• Outdoor activities
• Creative projects
• Family conversations

Model healthy habits. Demonstrate balanced screen use yourself by setting aside device-free times and engaging in alternative activities with your children.

10. Practice effective communication with children

Children will listen to you after they feel listened to.

Active listening. Give your full attention when your child is speaking. Make eye contact, avoid interrupting, and reflect back what you hear to ensure understanding.

Ask curiosity questions. Use open-ended questions to encourage deeper thinking and communication. Examples:

• "What do you think caused that to happen?"
• "How did you feel when that happened?"
• "What ideas do you have for solving this problem?"

Use fewer words. Keep instructions and reminders brief and to the point. Sometimes a single word or gesture can be more effective than a long explanation.

Watch your tone. Be mindful of your tone of voice, as it can have a significant impact on how your message is received. Strive for a calm, respectful tone even in challenging situations.

Last updated: November 20, 2024