We discussed the importance of discipline during class last week. Discipline provides boundaries, and kids derive security from knowing where the boundaries are and who’s available to enforce them. Research has proved that a disciplined kid has high self-esteem as he/she learns from the parents the importance of responsibility and sound decision making. These are the ingredients of a productive life.
Discipline that invites reflection and cooperation requires effective communication skills. Discipline that strips a kid of his dignity and sense of control only invites rebellious attitude and hostility. Discipline approaches that rely heavily on blaming and accusing, name-calling, threats, lecturing and moralizing, comparision, sarcasm, and martydom statements will only produce strong aversive reaction from children. Last week a parent shared with me the response from her five year old child after she had disciplined him. ” Mom, how would you feel if I talked to you the same way if you had made a mistake?” You can tell that our children will keep us accountable.
We will continue to discuss the second principle of Discipline without Stress this week. Look forward to seeing you Sunday.