23 www.rnca.ca Child Discipline continued What does it look like? All children need their parents to teach them how to behave. Children need time to learn what they should and should not do. They learn to behave by: • watching their parents and other people • getting clear instructions, and • being praised and encouraged for their efforts. The right kind of discipline teaches children responsibility, self-control, and right from wrong. It raises the child's self-esteem, encourages the child to do better and strengthens the parent-child bond. Parents should never discipline children until the children are old enough to understand it. Babies never need discipline. Why doesn't spanking work? Experts say that spanking is not an effective form of discipline. Spanking can make children angry and resentful. It can cause them to lose trust in their parents. It teaches children that hitting others is okay. In the long run, spanking can make children's behaviour worse. Spanking doesn't work - for you or your child. What does work? What does work is to build your child's confidence and problem-solving skills. It is important to figure out the reasons for your child's behaviour. When you understand the reason for your child's behaviour, it may be easier to handle the situation without losing your temper. Ways to help your child behave well: • Create a loving and respectful home. • Be a good role model. • Focus on prevention. • Decide what is truly important and have a few clear and consistent rules. • Tell your child what you expect. • Praise your child's efforts, even if they're not perfect. • Respect your child's need to express their emotions. • Listen to your child's thoughts, ideas and concerns. • Watch your child closely so you can redirect behaviour before it gets worse. • Make sure that you both get enough sleep. • Make sure that you both eat nutritious food regularly and exercise. • Last but not least, try to have fun with your child. continued
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