It is important to set limits that are few but firm for your child’s safety and security. We recommend avoidance of physical punishment because it may teach that violence is acceptable. Time-out is preferred in which your child is placed in an un-stimulating, safe area; length of time-out recommended is one minute per year of age. To ensure that discipline is effective, these principles must be followed:

• Consistency – as agreed upon and every time your child misbehaves;
• Timing – as soon as your child misbehaves;
• Unity – all caregivers must agree on this plan;
• disapprove of the behavior and not the child.

The following guidelines help to minimize misbehavior:

• Praise your child for desirable behavior with your attention and verbal approval.
• Prevent problem areas; for example, place fragile objects out of reach.
• Review expected behavior before special events, such as dinner in a restaurant or visiting.
• State requests in a positive way; for example, “put it down” versus “don’t touch it.”
• To avoid typical negative (“no”) responses to requests, tell your child what to do rather than ask and offer appropriate choices.
• Call attention to unacceptable behavior as soon as it begins; use distraction to change the behavior or offer alternatives.
• Keep promises made.

Overall, to raise a happy, self-confident child, offer approval versus disapproval, praise rather than criticism and hugs instead of spankings!