Parent Corner – Discipline Discipline does not only mean “good behaviour”. To clean up after playing is a discipline, to hang the jacket in the cubby, to put away things where they belong is a discipline too, thus discipline is an act of behaviour. Discipline starts at an early age. In Greek discipline means “disciple” or a follower who obeys to the set rules and regulations because he feels safe and believes that he is treated with respect and in fairness. Sometimes parents confuse discipline with punishment. Discipline is a positive method of bringing correction in children whereas punishment leaves a negative impact, it is often harsh and disrespectful and does not teach children anything rather children argue and justify their wrong action “he hit me first, he pushed me first”. In order to inculcate discipline in children, it is necessary to set basic guidelines for children to follow: 1. Hitting and pushing: remind children as often as possible that hitting and pushing is not at allowed in the family, this includes throwing tantrums on a little pet around the house, or breaking favourite toys, or being mean with younger sibling thus, anything that might break or hurt the feelings is not acceptable 2. Apologizing: let children know that it is important to accept their mistake but is more important to know to correct it. In order to make their relationship better with their friends and siblings, it is important to apologize. This rule teaches children that if they make a mistake, they must also know to correct it. 3. Recovery room: As a family rule, children should be able to take quiet time to recover from their emotions and feelings. Let them in a peaceful and quiet area where they just sit and gather themselves and realize their wrong action before talking about it. As an adult be calm and compose and give them time until they are ready to talk. Thus, discipline develops in children an understanding of their own part of the responsibilities and expectations of them. |