Discipline

Why is “No” his favourite word?

DEALING WITH NEGATIVISM
Your baby’s negativism (saying “no” all the time, running away, throwing things, and so on) has probably surged lately. This affects feeding, sleeping, playing, teasing – all the areas of important communication between parents and child. He is actively testing his limits thanks to his new-found mobility, awareness that people and objects have permanence, and heightened ability to manipulate and control toys and his environment. Tantrums are common at this age, along with other types of openly negative, provocative behaviour. Discipline, then, becomes a critical part of your role as parents in the second year. Again, be consistent in your rules and turn away when you get very angry.

Planning your long-term discipline strategies

A LONG-TERM GOAL
As your child starts testing you and the limits you’ve set, remember that discipline means teaching, not punishment. Discipline is a long-term goal, and your goal is to teach your child to limit himself. What you do at any one time isn’t the issue. It’s being consistent and imposing limits wisely, when they really matter, that count.

Parenting classes

BACK TO SCHOOL
If you haven’t already, you might think about taking a parenting class on discipline. In some areas these are provided by health visitors or parenting organisations. It’s important to get some information on this topic and to discuss with your partner how you plan to set limits. You may be surprised at the different views you have on this topic, so try to agree on an approach as soon as possible. Spouses who feel similarly about most things may find that they have very different ideas about disciplining their children. Sit down and discuss various approaches. Consistency is the most important thing for your child. If you cannot agree, how can he know how to behave well for both of you? Ask your health care provider for some suggestions on local parenting programs if you think you could benefit from them.

FYI:
It’s also a good idea to get some advice on babies’ sleep patterns, behaviour management or choosing day-care. Classes are sometimes available through the community colleges, from your health visitors or parenting organisations. Your health visitor or your GP as well as other mothers are the people to ask. Meeting other families can be another real plus of taking these classes. You and your child should have a community of people who can provide the emotional and practical support you’ll need as parents.

Tips
Moments to treasure
When you want to treat your child to a fun activity, put your stale bread to good use and go and feed the ducks. Take a trip to a nearby lake or pond to see where the ducks live, and bring along a picnic for the two of you while you’re at it.

The above post is courtesy of the Pampers Newsletter for children aged 12-24 months.