Parenting is something that you learn. Once you have children your life takes on new meaning. What you say or do is being watched and often Memicked by the little ones around you.

This is why we need to learn how to correct our children without harming their self esteem or causing undue fear with in them.

As adults we learn to react to what happens around us. Many times our fear will come out in angry words or a loud scream. So learning to Act instead of React is a lesson we all could improve upon.

Knowing that our children have a limited attention span when they are young. Can help you fine tune how you speak to them and what you say. It will also help you consider how you should say it.

Here are a few wonderful ideas to use as tools when you discipline your child.

1). Never forget that discipline and punishment are two different things. Discipline will help you correct your child and teach them a positive way to handle issues the next time they may arrive.

2). Always speak to your child in a firm but steady voice. They will not be afraid of you and they will listen if your voice is firm.

3). Maintain good eye contact. If they are looking into your eyes you can tell if they are understanding what you are saying or if what you are saying is going over the top of their heads.

4). Do not yell. Take a time out if you are upset and know that you can not talk to your child without anger.

5). Your goal is to teach your child what not to do and Why he or she should not do it. Going over the issue several times will not change it and you will lose precious moments of comprehension with your child.

6). Ask your child questions. Listen to them.
By allowing them to talk with you. You can understand why they made the mistake. Then you can help them to understand a better way to handle things in the future.

7). Always tell your child you love them and respect them. That you are there for them no matter what happens and that they can talk to you about anything.

8). Try not to make your child feel guilty or like they are bad. The behavior is bad but your child is not bad. They need to know that.

9). Teach by example. Do not do anything that your child should not see you doing. If your child asks you about why you are doing something. Answer them. Let them know parents make mistakes also.
We are all human.

10). Always close your conversation with a loving comment. Example: Son I know you wont ride you bike around the street with out permission next time. I appreciate you telling me the truth. You are grounded for the evening. But I love you and time will pass quickly.

This way you are not dismissing what the child did wrong. You are holding to your grounding. However you acknowledge that you appreciate him being truthful and you confirmed your love for him.

There are many ways to use creative discipline. Just as learning lasts a life time and Parenting is for a Life time. Discipline is instilled in your child for a life time also.