Counselor’s Corner

Mary M. Bethune Elementary ּ 5925 Old Carriage Drive ּ College Park, GA 30349

Phone: 770-991-7940 ּ Fax: 770-991-7940

Mrs. Raye Dupree

Guidance Counselor

Better Behavior Though Loving Discipline

 

As your children grow up, it’s natural for them to challenge you.  Sometimes, it seems easier to just let them have their way. But all children need limits, and they need parents to guide them.

 

Discipline works best with a balance of love, respect, clearly defined rules, and understanding.  Here are some secrets of effective discipline.

 

Make the rules clear

 

Children do best when they know what to expect.  Talk about family rules, explaining the consequences clearly.  Example:  “Put your bicycle away when you’ve finished riding it.  If you don’t, you won’t be allowed to ride it the next day.”  As you child learns to read, write down the rules and put them on the refrigerator as a reminder.

 

Be consistent and firm

 

You can expect your child to “test” the rules from time to time.  When they do, try to stand your ground and apply the set consequences.  Being firm and consistent lets them know that you mean business.

 

Give positive feedback

 

Try to focus more on your children’s right actions than on their wrong ones.  This will encourage them to try even harder to behave.  So, when you see behavior you would like repeated, let your children know.  Example:  “Thanks for hanging up your coat and backpack!”

 

Most of all continue to give them lots of hugs and kisses!

Bethune Elementary School

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