Parents who set clear limits—and follow through when their children step outside them—actually have to do less disciplining. If everyone in the family knows the boundaries, your child is more likely to behave appropriately.
Are you setting effective limits? Do you follow through when your child steps outside of those limits? Answer yes or no to each of the statements:
___1. I have set clear limits and have talked about them with my child.
___2. Our family has routines. There’s a regular bedtime and study time. The more predictable things are, the less likely kids are to fight.
___3. I plan ahead. A tired child is often a cranky child. I try to avoid a trip to the grocery store when my child is worn out from school.
___4. My child is aware of the consequences when he breaks the rules. They are enforced every time.
___5. I reinforce good behavior. I say things to my child such as, “I like it when you come to dinner without being called.”
How well are you doing?
Each yes means you’re setting clear limits and following through. For no answers, try those ideas in the quiz.
Reprinted with permission from the February 2008 issue of Parents make the difference!® (Elementary School Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2008 The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc.