Discipline isn’t a dirty word. In fact, assertive discipline helps children understand that their behavior always has consequences and that those consequences are carried out in a predictable, loving environment. This means your child will feel safe and secure and will know what to expect.

Confident discipline not only helps children learn to accept responsibility for their behavior, it also helps them learn to consider the feelings and needs of others. And it helps them learn to develop self-control.

 

   

For parents, assertive discipline means you are prepared. You set clear ground rules and tell your child what to do rather than what not to do. You give clear, calm instructions and are consistent from one day to the next. It’s no good letting things slip simply because you can’t be bothered following up!

 

But you also don’t have to jump on every minor misdeed. Ignore misbehavior you think is just an attempt to get attention. Don’t make a fuss and it may go away. But if set rules are broken, act quickly, stay calm and follow up with fair, age-appropriate consequences, such as taking away a toy for a few minutes. Remember to praise behavior you like. Try to catch your child following rules.