Disciplining toddlers can be a very difficult subject to discuss, as there are some very strong opinions out there regarding the use of spanking kids of any age - especially toddlers. It's crucial to note that disciplining can be done without using any physical form of penalty.
Toddlers acquire by doing - this can make quite a mess for parents, particularly when a toddler has just learned that he cannot, in fact, flush his favorite teddy bear down the toilet so that he can go swim with the pretty fish in the sea.
The best way to start the disciplining process is by telling. Toddlers want to know WHY something wasn't correct. Your child knows you are mad about him seeking to flush his teddy bear down the toilet, but he must to understand that NO toys should be put in the toilet.
It's as well crucial to reward a toddler for good behavior. When your child takes his empty plate and puts it on the kitchen counter without being asked, letting him know that you're pleased will result in the repetition of the good behavior. There is no need to come up with anything showy for a reward... a smile, a hug and an enthusiastic, "Thank you for helping me with the dishes!" will be more than enough to make him feel proud of his behavior.
Backwardly, withholding rewards is beneficial in reducing negative or unwanted behavior. If your toddler loves to watch her favorite show in the morning while she dresses, but you are trying to discourage her from coming into your bedroom each night to sleep with you, using her show as leverage can be beneficial to you. It'll take a lot of repeating during the days, and especially before bed, reminding her that she won't be able to watch her favorite show if she doesn't spend the whole night in her own bed, but after a couple of days of applying the new rule, you'll find that she is able to make the decision on which is more fun - sleeping with mommy and dad, or watching her show!
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