When choosing a consequence for an undesirable behavior, choose wisely. Be sure that if an item is being removed it will make an impact, and you are able to follow through. Sometimes the removal of an item becomes a punishment for the parent more so than the punishment for the child.
Let me give you an example. When we were on vacation, we were planning on having family movie night. My son had done something wrong that my husband decided needed a consequence. Although removing the movie night, which was just moments away, would have been the most immediate item, he chose to remove the following morning cartoons. I thought it was brilliant, because if he had taken away movie night, we all would have suffered.
Although delayed, it allowed for a comparable compromise with the same effectiveness. Regret did set in. We did not scratch the whole evening because of that one episode.
When choosing a consequence in disciplining, be creative. Remember to also take into consideration how it will affect you as well.
Parenting tips has been brought to you by Lisa Klipfel, MFT, a child therapist with an office in San Clemente. Future parenting tips will highlight developmental milestones, positive discipline, bonding and so much more. Read more about Lisa here.
Recent Comments