How To Discipline Your Children During The Holidays

Parents with children in primary school often ask me how to discipline their kids during the summer. It's a valid concern keeping in mind that this is the season to be more relaxed. Well, I have a question for you: How do you define, and how do you exercise discipline during the rest of the year? The same applies for the summer.

The holidays are an excellent opportunity to teach and guide your children. Be an example, and children will copy your behavior. Your role is to be supportive and not punitive. Please show respect for your child, private life, and activities and don't' do what you don't want them to do to you. If your child behaves disrespectfully or insults you with their behavior, ignore them, and walk away. Remember that you are an adult and you can keep your cool. If you respond to the challenge, you reinforce the situation, giving your child what they wanted in the first place; your attention negatively.

 

When your child faces a problem, do not make fun of them because the only thing you will accomplish is to insult your kid, and they will resist in response. People cooperate better when they are motivated than when they take orders. Of course, when you say "no," it should mean "no." But take the time to help your child find solutions and make their own choices.

 

When you hear your child tell you that something is wrong, they may need to feel more independent. Before you say "yes" or "no," see how mature they are. You may need to reconsider the boundaries. Ask them to tell you or write down their arguments and discuss them together. Remember, this is an excellent opportunity to remember your humor.

 

Finally, choose the two most important issues that matter to you and leave the insignificant ones aside. Don't forget to show your respect and appreciation for your child's many positive behaviors.