YOUR CHILD’S HEALTH/COMMON BEHAVIOURAL CONCERNS: DISCIPLINE AND STRATEGIES

Posted by admin on May 21, 2009 under General health | Be the First to Comment

Discipline

Toddlers and preschoolers, as well as older children, need to learn about limits. One of the developmental tasks of toddlers is to explore their surroundings. One of the tasks of parents is to consistently set limits.

Discipline is sometimes perceived as punishment — this is not correct. Discipline means parents teaching children which behaviours are acceptable, and which are not. In doing so, parents are also teaching the child to develop his own self-discipline. As he grows older, he will more easily be able to maintain limits for himself. This then becomes the precursor for self-control which is such an important quality in children (and adults).

Physical punishment

Discipline is not about physical punishment. Smacking or hitting your child should be avoided. It is possible to have a well behaved child without the threat of physical punishment. There are a number of arguments for not hitting children:

• It may teach your child that physical punishment or aggression is an appropriate way to interact with others.

• It has the danger of being an outlet for parental anger, and you will find it difficult to remain calm and in control of the situation while hitting your child.

Try to minimise or avoid the use of physical punishment. Use alternate methods of discipline.

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