It is Okay to Be Diverse With Disciplineby Kori Rodley Irons | More from this Blogger 13 Aug 2007 09:34 AM I know that as parents we are taught that firmness and consistency is the key when it comes to discipline. And, it is also tempting that when we find something that seems to work in the discipline department, we stick with it. BUT, there is nothing wrong with a little diversity. As a matter of fact, any parent has probably experienced finding something that seems to work for a while and then having everything change and finding that time outs, removal of privileges, discussions, etc. STOP working. Our kids change, life changes, and we find ourselves without discipline techniques to reach for. Staying one step ahead of the changes and having a good diverse collection of how to deal with behavior and discipline issues can be a very good thing... Diversity does not have to mean inconsistency. Over the years, as I've learned how to diversify my discipline with my own children, I've let natural and logical consequences be my guide. It often just makes better common sense to find a logical consequence to a child's behavior than to draw on things like grounding or restriction, time outs, etc. For example, consider the old I-broke-a-window (or toy or vase or whatever) because of rowdy, rough, or destructive behavior. Sure, there is always grounding, but perhaps it makes better sense to have the child make restitution for the offense with extra chores, or by paying for the repairs and helping to schedule them herself. The lesson is likely to be more lasting, it is perfectly reasonable and logical, and it is specific to the situation or circumstance at hand. There are plenty of books and articles on various discipline styles and techniques. I find that other parents and grandparents have provided a wealth of knowledge for me just by sharing what has and hasn't worked for them, and telling stories of their own parenting and discipline adventures. Diversify, but stay in control. After all, that's what parenting is all about! Also: Make Sure You Mean What You Say Do Your Kids Actually Know What is Expected Learn more about Kori Rodley Irons  Bio has been removed by administrator Relevantparenting tags User Comments No comments on this article yet. Be the first to comment! Community Tags behavior, discipline, parenting choices Discuss this article
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