Description of discipline technique:
If your child disobeys or demonstrates conduct unbecoming and something s/he has been warned about previously, you won't immediately think of this technique. This technique is a follow-up to other techniques. It is a powerful tool to use at the appropriate interval. Your other disciplining techniques will gain greater strength if you can discipline yourself to use this technique.


You can remind your child of what you have asked of him/her and then recall the behavior. Ask about what other things s/he could have done to avoid the behavior. Very often you will get silence, but almost every parent is great at filling in the blanks.

Later on, instead of watching TV or reading or playing, you will request that your child (you can also include other family members) pray with you. You can start by giving thanks to God for your child and the privledge of parenting. Ask God for guidance. Children need to see us humble, too, in the eyes of God. Make a promise to God to not give up on your child and to do what is needed to correct the behavior. Then request God, through prayer, to help your child to do the right things and to have greater self-control to do the things that s/he may not want to agree to (or other requests as related to the situation/behavior). You can then lead your child through (or have him/her create a prayer if s/he is capable) a prayer to God requesting assistance and giving thanks and asking for forgiveness.

You are creating a relationship and communication with God. However, please do not let this be the only times that God is prayed to. If it is, you may do more harm than good. We need to be mindful to rejoice our blessings to God in prayers for all the wonderful and glorious gifts we are given.

Appropriate age group(s):
Depends upon language skills, but should be able to handle it from 3 years and up.

Other suggestions or comments:
Always be positive. Add a special verse or story from your book of faith. Always show God's love for your child. Explain the positive outcomes if punishment is needed. Talk about the learning process in making mistakes. Teaching your child to pray is a positive outcome. Remember, don't allow this to be the only time you pray with your child. Amen! :-)