As a parent, in your eyes, your child may be a perfect little angel but sometimes, they can also be a little bit too mischievous. Just a moment being unsupervised, and something is likely to get damaged, spilled or broken. There are days, where they set out to push every boundary and break every rule.
For instance, you find him rummaging through everything in the kitchen cabinet. The food is completely spilled on the floor. Another time, they play with the tissue roll in the bathroom. Each time you catch them bending a rule, you get angry and frustrated.
Instead of getting fed up, why not try connection before correction. Make a change in disciplining your child and try to use positive reinforcement instead.
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Take a step into your child’s world, from their point of view
Whenever they act out, try to look for a solution to what your child is doing. Just sit with them, play and talk to them. Through this, you will be able to fix the mistakes and think about what they were doing from their point of view.
It will then directly related to what had happened. They might just want your attention for doing such. Yelling and scolding will not fix the broken items but try to see from their point of view, it will help you fix a mistake.
Letting them make mistakes
You might be thinking this is not a way to discipline and it won’t work. In fact, it is time to calm your own expectations and fears. There will be a time when you will be sceptical about letting them make mistakes and wonder if it was the right choice.
But if you do, you will start to notice how much they have grown. The more opportunities you let them play and make mistakes freely, they will start to ask for help when they make a mistake. This positive discipline allows you to treat your child in a respectful way.
Listen to what your child might have to say
Children are often curious and always set to go beyond your boundaries. But to discipline your child, the most important thing to connect with your child is to listen. You cannot influence your child in a positive way until you listen to what they have to say.
For instance, each time they push your limit, try to slow down and listen to their explanation. This is the moment when you provide understanding for your child and look beyond the mess they have done.
Offer corrections that are encouraging and respectful
When your child is making all those mischievous mistakes, don’t just assume they are being bad or naughty. Instead, use these moments as guidance to offer them corrections that are encouraging. You can try to avoid the need to lecture and correct them by simply joining in with them.
You will then realize that they are curious and playful. They will become more open to suggestions and listen as you guide them with words of encouragement. It is important to validate and acknowledge your child while disciplining them in a positive way.
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