child behavior and child discipline problems

Solving child behavior and child discipline problems
By: Dr. Noel Swanson..

The rule of the thumb is that rewards work better than punishments in establishing child discipline. Parents need to lay more stress on positive reinforcement rather than punishment for bad behavior. Many people view discipline as a punishment system but that is not necessarily so. Indeed, you can eliminate punishment altogether if you reward good behavior. Children, no matter how big they are, always seek parental approval. Punishment, on the other hand, makes them defiant, stubborn and obstinate.

Sure, it might work for you for a little while, but then you find your children laughing at you every time you say 'one more time and I'll (insert child disciplinary method)'. Well, you aren't the first parent to experience this and not only does it ruin consistency, it creates a negative environment in the home.

You can’t afford to neglect child discipline; but punishment tactics should be avoided as far as possible; they don't work. Try a reward system instead. Rewards don’t have to be tangible; a nod of approval, a word of praise and a warm hug can work wonders. You can encourage positive children's behavior by positive reinforcement. It makes you and your child feel good. And, it saves time on the yelling.

Don't know where to start with establishing a reward system? Here are some parenting help steps to help you get started.

1. Both parents must sit down and formulate an action plan. Communication is the keyword here. Make a list of child behavior actions and rewards. For example, you can set a reward for cleaning up the bedroom without having to be reminded.

2. Once a chart has been established and the basic outline lay out, the next step is to sit down with your children, if they are old enough, and explain the system. Actively engaging older children in this type of routine change will help to make implementing it run smoothly and avoid any child behavior problems. They will feel they are contributing to the household decision making process and be more willing to cooperate. Younger children are also more accepting and less likely to openly oppose a change.

* It is most important that you follow through and keep a record. Keeping track of a lot of activities can be hard to do. Use the chart to keep track of where each child stands. This is also a visual reinforcement.

Following these three steps will help you get started in establishing a reward-based child discipline system in your home to help make sure things get done. By rewarding good child behavior and the accomplishment of child discipline tasks, you set a positive foundation for self-esteem.

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source - www.keywordarticles.org

Dr. Noel Swanson runs a fascinating free newsletter on children's behavior, so if you could do with some tips for dealing with your children it might be worth a visit.