The word “consequence” in parenting has come to mean different things to different people. But in order to truly teach kids a lesson, a consequence must have certain characteristics. “Kids need to experience the consequences of their actions.” For any parent whose goal it is to raise a self-sufficient child, those words ring true. Our…
Understanding the difference between punishment and discipline and why it matters can help guide us towards more effective parenting. It’s not unusual for parents to be confused by the differences between punishment and discipline. In our modern language the two words are often used interchangeably, even though they originally meant very different things. And when…
Letting our kids experience the natural consequences of their decisions and actions can strengthen their confidence and self-sufficiency – but only when our kids are developmentally ready and only in certain circumstances. It’s a beautiful, sunny day and your daughter is eager to do one of her favorite things: ride around your neighborhood on her…
Many parents try to use consequences to change their child’s misbehavior but find they’re ineffective. Here’s why that happens, how to determine when a consequence will be effective, and seven alternative parenting tools that often work better. Your daughter has been playing with Magnatiles for the past hour. You love that she’s so engaged in…