Positive Discipline for Your Child
- Make a family rule list that everyone can refer to daily. For example: no jumping on the couch.
- Set a consistent daily schedule with meals, play time, parent-child time, and bedtime.
- Give your child a five- to ten-minute countdown before changing activities.
- Use age-appropriate time-outs consistently.
- Explain that the world has rules and everyone has responsibilities.
- Keep a sense of humor and redirect children to acceptable behavior.
- Speak to your child respectfully and at eye level.
- Do not call a child “bad.” Address the behavior rather than shaming the child.
- Make time for cuddling, play, and positive attention each day.
- Recognize and work through issues from your own childhood.
- Model self-regulation and take breaks when upset.
- Read books that help children understand and express feelings.
- Apologize when you have lost control of your anger.
- Remember that you are a role model and teacher every day.
- Focus on the positive; recognize and praise good behavior.
- Be kind to yourself and arrange parenting breaks.
- Practice self-care and seek support when needed.