10 Rules To Move From Monster To Munchkin

Every family and every child is unique, but there are still some universal principles of discipline that can lead to a more peaceful life for all. Work at them every day for best results.

- Nia Visagie

PRINCIPLE 1

BE CONSISTENT

If you’ve made rules, you have to stick to them. A rule shouldn’t apply on one day and then not on the next. This just confuses children, and they won’t have a clue what is expected of them. It is difficult being consistent, mostly because we’re tired and we want to give ourselves a break from it all by being more lax about the rules, but in the long term this does not pay off. When your rules are not consistently applied, your little ones will continue to test the boundaries, and test the boundaries… leaving you even more exhausted.

Consistency over time will lead to more peace and quiet, especially when it comes to punishment, or rather, consequences. If your child knows exactly what will happen when a rule is broken and there is consistency, a lot less emotional energy is expended. You don’t have to get angry – you simply point out to your child that she is breaking the rule, you warn her, and if she continues, the predictable and known punishment follows. You know what is coming, she knows what is coming, and there are no surprises between you. If you stick to this, bad behaviour will begin to improve very quickly.

PRINCIPLE 2

SET CLEAR BOUNDARIES

Make sure that your child knows exactly what behaviour is acceptable and what isn’t. Chat about boundaries often, and explain why things have to work the way they do. Allow your child the opportunity to ask questions about the boundary you’ve set, but not necessarily to negotiate it. You are the boss of the house, something that gives your child a sense of safety and security, trust and fairness. The motive behind the boundary you set, is love.