When teaching kids discipline, it’s all about positivity

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By Alexis Dill MS PLMT, adill@stph.org

The word “discipline” comes from the root word “disciple,” meaning to “follow in love.” That makes sense, since our role as parents is to be our child’s first teacher and disciplinarian.

It’s also an enormous responsibility. After all, as parents, we lay down the foundation for our children, giving them the tools they will need to flourish in society.

When considering behavior as a whole, there are multiple important things for parents to keep in mind:

• You are your child’s mirror. In you they find and develop their self-esteem. They are reliant on you to ensure they become lovable and capable human beings. Reflect their goodness.
• Set aside time for them. In our fast-paced society, it is easy to be fully consumed in what we are doing. Even setting aside just five minutes a day to play with your child can truly make a world of a difference.
• Teach them the skills you want them develop. As adults, I think we sometimes forget that things have to be taught to children. Think about the adults you want them to be one day and the family morals and values you want to pass on, then create opportunity to instill those values and morals in them on a day-to-day basis.
• Accentuate the positive. Do you sometimes feel like you spend your entire day yelling? Focus on your child’s strengths. Focus on the good your child does rather than on the negative. See how it changes the tone of your day.

Parenting is one of the toughest jobs in the world, and The Parenting Center is here for you! If discipline is something you struggle with within your home environment, please reach out! We are here to help.

At $20, we offer parenting coaching by appointment, so call The Parenting Center to set up an appointment with one of our educators for guidance and assistance on how to incorporate positive discipline into your own household.

Below, find descriptions of upcoming Parenting Center classes for parents and new siblings. For details and a full calendar of events, visit STPH.org/Parenting Center, email adill@stph.org or call 985-898-4435.

• On Thursdays, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the Parenting Center hosts a Baby and Me Support Group. The class is free and open to the public. It will be facilitated by our education coordinator, Alexis Dill. This weekly group provides socialization for new babies as well as a time for new parents to collaborate and talk about new parent struggles. For details visit STPH.org/ParentingCenter, email adill@stph.org or call 985-898-4435.
• Did you know The Parenting Center offers ballet and karate classes? Join The Conservatory of Ballet Aviv and JFK Marital Arts on Wednesdays and Fridays at The Parenting Center for these fun interactive classes! Ballet and Karate are both $30 per month per child. For details visit STPH.org/ParentingCenter, email adill@stph.org or call 985-898-4435.
• Looking for a new Play Group in town? Please join us for our age-specific play groups! Our preschool play group is held on Aug. 11, 18 and 25 at 10:30 a.m. and our toddler play group is held Aug. 12, 19 and 26. For details visit STPH.org/ParentingCenter, email adill@stph.org or call 985-898-4435.
• Been wanting to check out The Parenting Center and see what we’re all about? Join us Aug. 25 at 11:30 a.m. for our “Picnic and Play” program. We will be having a picnic here at The Parenting Center and giving a little more information about what we offer. Come tour our amazing facility and meet the staff!