While worrying about the discipline aspects of their toddlers, parents need to remember that discipline is a word derived from Latin, meaning ‘to teach.’ Discipline means nothing else but teaching the kids finer points of right behavior. Toddlers and older kids are habitual testers. They learn their limits by testing them. By saying ‘no’ or walking out, they are trying to test how much they can resist. It is a normal behavior for kids at this age.
However, it could be dangerous if they try to test their limits to the extreme. Hence, parents need to set certain limits by carefully laying the foundations of discipline in their mind. Let’s see how this can be done gently and tactfully.
First of all parents should understand that toddlers and even older children cannot think like adults. Toddlers cannot understand easily adult concepts such as cleanliness, orderliness, obedience and so on. They will take time to understand these values and parents need to be patient until the kids develop their grasping power. However, they like to please their parents and so may do what you want if they see that you are pleased by the action. Hence, keep encouraging the kids and show that you are pleased. This will inspire them to do more.
Young kids are short on vocabulary to express their feelings effectively. Hence, they often try to physically convey their feelings. If you try to teach them to express their feeling in words, this will stop them from violent behavior when they feel angry. Also teach them the rules of behavior one by one over a period of time. Their little brain can’t hold too many things too quickly. Also, once a rule is made be firm and consistent with it. If you deny them something, let it be so. If you give in occasionally, they may not take your denials seriously. If you are hesitant or unsure with your answer, the kids will take it as permission.
If the toddlers are in a naughty mood and is doing something that could be harmful, divert their attention or give them some substitutes. For example, if they want to play with your CD, give them some old ones that you don’t use. Toddlers love the freedom to choose, and therefore give them some choices. For instance, ask them if they want banana or apple for a snack, or if they want to wear shorts or pants for going out on a warm day.
Also, give them time to finish what they are doing or notify them before you make them do something else. Prevention is better than cure. So, tell them in advance what not to do. This will save you from getting angry unnecessarily. Above all practice what you preach. Kids are great imitators and remember that they willingly ape what they see their parents do.
Posted on May 17th, 2008 by admin
Filed under: Baby, Behavior, Learning, Toddler
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