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Discipline Starts with Positive Interactions

Focus on connection and a positive relationship first, to teach discipline.

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James Craig, PhD, MA, Pediatric Psychiatry

  • Effective discipline starts with a strong, positive relationship between parent and child.
  • Focus on positive interactions alongside discipline to maintain trust and connection.
  • Target only a few behaviors at a time and have a clear, pre-planned strategy for addressing them.
  • Some behaviors require immediate attention (e.g., hurting others), while others can be ignored when appropriate.
  • Effective consequences should be immediate, consistent, mild and brief.
  • Communication and alignment with co-parents or caregivers are essential to maintain consistency.
     

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