Disciplining your toddler is not only about making him follow all the things you say. But rather it is about letting him understand the value of good manners and respect. At his young age, you may find it impossible to make your young one comprehend the importance of discipline as he has a mind of his own. Social rules need to be instilled to help your toddler grow into a bright, fun and loving individual, and as a parent, it is your duty to accomplish this responsibility.

It is stressful to raise your toddler into a well-behaved and well-mannered individual especially if he likes to cry, kick and scream. But, discipline is essential to help your child fittingly transition to a well adjusted teen and into an adult. To help you out, toddler discipline techniques must be observed.

Technique # 1: Proper Communication

Language helps you transmit discipline points to your toddler. You need to focus and use an effective and open communication approach to help you properly deliver what you have to say. When talking to your toddler, always be mindful to use positive words instead of derogatory ones. Negative words only causes bad effects in his way of thinking and can dampen his self-confidence. You have to let your toddler know what you want to do and what he needs to do to make him pay attention. Avoid telling him what you do not want him to do since this will only challenge him. Also, use the words “no” and “stop” scarcely since the impact of these words decreases when used repeatedly. Simply ask him what is wrong, what is bothering him and from there talk to him in a way you would talk to a mature adult.

Technique # 2: Always Look For The Positive

Whenever your toddler does something wrong, never scold him point blank. Instead, stop the action and ask him what is wrong. These catches his attention making him open up to you. You have to understand what the problem is before instilling any consequences. In this way, your toddler knows you feel for him but he has to pay for his actions.

Technique # 3: Educate With Constructive Reinforcement

Your little one needs to learn the impact of his actions. If he starts to put on a tantrum, kicks, cries and screams, do not let your guard down. Never lose your temper to a wailing child. Teach your toddler about boundaries and limitations by using affirmative and nurturing words. Instead of shouting “ Stop jumping on the bed!”, try a firm “Do not jump on the bed, you might get yourself and other people hurt.” Chances are, he is oblivious of his actions and you giving him a heads up about it helps him think twice about his actions.

Technique # 4: Set Limits and Stick to It

The effectiveness of your disciplinary techniques depends on how much limitations you set and if you stick to it or bend at the slightest cute tricks your toddler makes. It is important that you instil verbal and physical limitations to help him be sensitive towards other people’ feelings. In this way, he realizes that not everything is about him and that he can hurt others when careless. Restrict him accordingly. Too much boundaries makes him feel confined making him more eager to bend his limitations.

Technique # 5: Keep It Fun

Discipline bores your toddler. To keep his interest running, give him a reward after doing a good deed. Tell him he can have ice cream after he finishes his fruits and vegetables. Turn rules into a fun activity and never forget to commend him from time to time. Making it fun for your little one helps him easily adjust to the rules minus the stress and screaming marathon.

Technique # 6: Use The Time Out Rule

Disciplining your young one during the incident will inform him that you do not tolerate such foul behaviours. Whenever he does something negative, send him to a corner for a short time. Do not speak to him. After the time out, have a serious talk with him and point out what he did was wrong and that he can hurt people with his actions. Inform him that if he repeats it again, he will face another time out.

To instil discipline to your child does not mean spanking, shouting or hitting him. Instead, discipline him by having a clear, firm, serious and commanding conversation. This approach is more effective in making him realize his wrong doings.