Description of discipline technique:
I think any discipline should fit the behavior it is meant to correct. Example: A child hits another child because he wanted the toy he had - a punishment of a week with no ice cream might not be appropriate but taking away a toy that he likes could be.

I think it is very important to look directly into your child's eyes. Making eye contact is important not only for the child to know you are serious, but to exhibit behavior which you would like the child to model after. After all, what he sees you doing, not saying, is more likely what he will remember and emulate. I try to ask myself when I am disciplining my child if what I am saying or doing is something I would actually want him to do or say to his own children someday. If my answer is no, then I stop and change my behavior and response. If not that time, then I make every effort to think about another approach for the next time.

Treating children with respect and with dignity is important. Just because they are small doesn't mean saying hurtful things to them doesn't matter - might does not make right. Kindness also can be emulated from behaviors our children witness from the adults in their lives. If we treat them without respect, it should not be surprising when we see them treating others the same way. Discipline can be achieved without embarrasement and humiliation to the child.

My son is five now and says to me, "Mom, can we talk about this?" I think it's working.

Appropriate age group(s):
All ages