In this guide

Bradley Hospital Parenting Guide:
Effective Discipline

The world is different, but molding children's behavior is still a struggle.

Whether you believe the recent changes in our culture are good or bad, our children certainly grow up in a very different environment than we did. They are introduced to the real world through mass communication at an early age. They learn faster with educational TV shows, computers, media and modern teaching methods.

Although children today are more worldly, they are still children. Parents still have the age-old problem of getting them to behave in ways that are socially acceptable as well as consistent with their own values.

Rethink the Ideas We Picked Up from Our Parents

A common misperception is that you must act immediately to correct unacceptable behavior. While this is usually true when the offense is serious or when parents feel particularly upset or angry, it makes sense to get a little distance from the situation so you can objectively judge the severity of your child's action.

It is okay for your child to see you debating over disciplinary options. Parents don't have to agree with each other or use the same approaches to discipline. Seeing their parents' independent attitudes can teach children that their own attitude is valid, even if it isn't the same as another's.

If you aren't getting through to your children for some reason, you may be able to benefit from professional help. Experts in child development can teach you new techniques.

If you feel overwhelmed, you can call Bradley Hospital anytime: 401-432-1364.

New attitudes toward discipline

 

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