Counseling parents about childhood discipline

Traditional disciplinary methods include rewards to reinforce good behavior and punishment for unacceptable behavior. Rewards may take the form of verbal praise, a smile, special attention or activities, physical affection, extra privileges or material benefits. Punishment may include verbal disapproval, an unhappy look, ignoring the behavior (extinction), temporary isolation ("time-out") or temporary removal of a privilege. Rewards are more effective than punishment. Discipline should be consistent, reasonable and appropriate to the child's age. Rules should be as few and as clear as possible. Parents should be exemplary role models for their children. Punishment, when required, should be immediate and inevitable. Punishment should be just and directed toward the undesired behavior rather than the child. Parents should discipline their children with love, understanding, patience and tolerance.