Is Your Discipline Working?

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  

Guest: David Weisenhorn, PhD Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development  

Season 6, Episode 45

 Dr. David Wiesenhorn, Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development, explores the fascinating subject of discipline techniques for children and how to assess their effectiveness.

Too often, parents conflate discipline with punishment. David emphasizes the importance of viewing discipline as a guidance tool for teaching kids, rather than a system of punitive measures. Feeling frustrated by seemingly relentless misbehavior from your child can often be a sign of setting expectations that don't align with their developmental stage. This episode offers essential tips, such as teaching kids to control impulses through demonstrating such control in our own actions, or providing appropriate ways to express their feelings.

David also reveals some thought-provoking questions that parents can use for personal reflection: Have I shown my child how to control himself? Have I given my child tools to make a better choice next time? Have I built my relationship with my child? It is crucial for your child to feel loved and respected, which can be demonstrated through your patient, consistent, and kind responses to them.

One of the key takeaways from the discussion is the importance of coordinating disciplinary strategies with everyone involved in your child's life. Whether it's at home or at grandparents' house, consistency in the disciplinary messages your child receives can significantly streamline behavioral changes.

It's essential for parents to be patient, recognize their own foibles, and understand that meaningful behavioral change is a gradual process. Listen to David's sage advice for mastering the art of effective discipline and fostering better behavior in your children.

Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.

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