EFFECTIVE DISCIPLINE RULES
Did you know - "Discipline" comes from a Latin word meaning "to instruct"

RULE #1: Praise Regularly
Immediately after the deed is far better than later.  
Late is better than never.
Praise includes smiles, hugs, kisses and encouragement, not objects.

RULE #2: Discipline Quietly
Use self control, a quiet voice and firm patience.
Use eye contact and physical gentle tender touch.
Show them you love them, no matter what, even though they have disappointed you.
Do not issue idle threats. They are meaningless and children know it.

RULE #3: Make The Rules Known
Explain what is okay and what is not okay, clearly and precisely.
Explain the consequences and have them repeated back to you.
Post the regulations on the wall if necessary, small children can understand drawings.
If the rule doesn’t work, change it so that it does.

RULE #4: Be Consistent
Use the same rules every day.
Use the same rules, limits,  and attitudes for all children with modifications for different age levels.
Stick with whatever you said or started until the issue is over.
If no hitting or lying is a rule, don't hit or lie.

RULE #5: Follow Up On Everything
Stand by your word, back it up. 
If you don’t want to back it up, don’t say it.
Never say “No” and change it to “Yes" and never say “Yes" and change it to “No." Think before you answer.
If you say “No” and change your mind, uphold your decision and say “Yes” next time.
If there isn't a reaction to a command or request, get up and enforce the rule NOW. Use Rule #2. 

RULE #6: Stop Those Long Explanations
Keep explanations short, sweet, simple and final.
They already know what you are going to say, again.

RULE #7: Quality Time First, Quantity Second
Listen to your children. If you ignore them they will learn to ignore you.
Really listen.  If you really listen to children they will appreciate it and learn how to listen to you.
Select a set time or activity to devote to them, and do not fail.

RULE #8: Stop Rewarding Bad Behaviour
Bad behaviour is simply an attention-getter.  This should set off alarms for Rule #7.
Pay strict attention to the pleasure and reward a child gets from their bad behaviour.
It's there. Find it. Hunt it down and kill it. Quickly.

RULE #9: Never be untruthful
One lie destroys the complete trust a parent has in their child forever. It can be repaired, but it's not easy. Get them to understand this.
One lie destroys the complete trust a child has in their parent forever. It can be repaired, but it's not easy. Understand this.
Explain white lies only when they are old enough to understand and deal with hurt feelings. 

RULE #10: Set Your Children Up To Win
Don’t put your child in a situation that allows bad behaviour.
Give your child good behaviour alternatives.
Set up a reward system that doesn’t involve handing them money.
Offer your assistance at a particular hour if the child won’t do something on time.
Always be on the lookout for new ways to help your children win.

RULE #11: Start New Discipline Or Changes With An Formal Announcement
Sit down with all the family members to explain the new rules, and your objectives.
If you return to your old patterns, let the children know you did, and try again.

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