Positive Parenting As Alternative To Physical Discipline
There is no dearth of parenting techniques in the world, as there are children. Some parents use simple ideas for discipline, while others resort to punishments or spankings.
Punishment is a penalty for misbehaving, while discipline is a method to teach a child right from wrong. Punishment can be physical as in spanking or verbal such isolating a child in his/her room. Discipline helps children learn self - control and take responsibility for their incorrect behavior. Disciplined children are more likely to show independence, respect themselves and others than non - disciplined kids.
Gentle spanking on occasions are not likely to cause much damage to children as compared to repetitive and intense bouts of spanking. Continual and severe spanking can damage your child’s self esteem, lead to mental anguish, aggressive behavior, make them resentful and teach them that violence is a way to solve problems. Here are some positive alternatives to spanking
Children model themselves on their parents’ behavior and actions. So parents should set examples of positive behavior. Be a positive role model for your children.
Set realistic rules and consequences. Explain the rules and impact of not adhering to them.
Promote and reward good behavior. Praise them for good behavior and reward them with privileges or increased responsibilities.
Give time outs, which involves asking your child to move away from a situation following a negative behavior. Time-outs can help children calm down, establish control, put an end to incorrect behavior and view the same situation in a positive way. Set a suitable length for the time-out based on the age and level of development of your child.
Once your child’s temper and emotions are under control, sit with him/her and talk about how their feelings could be handled differently in future situations.
Redirecting your child’s attention to another engaging activity when he/she is angry. Redirecting unfavorable behavior towards a much healthier release is a good way to enforce positive behavior without spanking.
