Disciplining a child is one of the most important roles of a parent, and perhaps one of the most difficult. But healthy discipline is part of a comforting family environment. Effective discipline at home provides a foundation for self-discipline throughout life. It helps your child grow up to be happy and well-adjusted. Effective and positive discipline teaches and guides children. It doesn't just force them to obey.

What are the goals of discipline?

• Discipline protects your child from danger.
• Discipline helps your child learn self-control and self-discipline.
• Discipline helps your child develop a sense of responsibility.
• Discipline helps instill values.
• What makes discipline "effective"?

Respect. Children should be able to respect their parents' authority and also the rights of other people. Discipline that's harsh—name-calling, shouting and humiliating—will make it difficult for a child to respect and trust a mother or father.

Consistency. Discipline that's not consistent is confusing to children, no matter how old they are. If parents are inconsistent in the way they discipline their children, children will find it hard to respect them.

Fairness. Children need to see discipline as fair. The consequences of their actions should be related to their bad behaviour. If your child throws food on the floor, make sure he helps you clean up the mess. Make sure it is cleaned up before he does something else. When the mess is cleaned up, the consequence is over.

You. As a parent, you have a unique bond with your child. If you teach your child discipline with respect, and make sure that it's consistent and fair, you'll have lasting positive effects on your child.

How can parents prevent behaviour problems?

• Give your child many opportunities for physical activity and exercise. Some children need to run off some of their energy.
• Instead of saying "NO," give her something more interesting to do. This is called distraction or redirection. For example, if she is climbing a fence, you can say "Come and play on the swings."
• Make sure your child has toys that are right for his age. Toys for young children should be simple. Don't give them too many at once.
• Children two years of age and younger have trouble remembering and understanding rules.
• Keep medicines and dangerous items out of their reach.
• If your child is tired and cranky, be understanding and calm to help her settle down. This is especially important before naps or bedtime. Having a short, quiet time (with no activity) can prevent bad and irritating behaviour.
• Ignore little things. Before you raise your voice, ask yourself, "Is this important?"

What can parents do to promote good behaviour?

• Spend time alone with your child each day.
• Be comforting. Give your child hugs, cuddles, a gentle pat on the back.
• If children are sad or angry, respect their feelings. Try to understand why they are sad or angry.
• Do things that are fun. Laugh together.
• If you make a promise, do your best to keep it. It important that children trust their parents.
• And they will want you to trust them, too.
• Always look for opportunities to praise your child for good behaviour.

  (Source: Canadian Paediatric Society)