Our last blog discussed 3 discipline problems when kids break things. You guessed whether each child broke things accidentally or out of disobedience.
Do you remember how Taylor teased the cat when the crystal vase broke? Christopher threw the ball and broke the dining room mirror. Katie dropped the salad bowl and damaged the bowl and the floor. The dog ate the salad.
As a parent, you have discipline choices. Consider the logical consequences below:
- I believe Taylor acted out of disobedience. When you told him to stop teasing the cat, he didn't listen. When the vase broke, he blamed the cat. You could yell but how would that stop him from not listening and blaming again. I suggest you stop what you're doing, go to Taylor, look him in the eye, and ask him, "What did I tell you?"
If he says, "I don't remember," tell him, "Go to Time Out and don't come out until you remember." While he's in TO, take the time to think up a consequence to give him. After he comes out and answers your question correctly, tell him, "That crystal vase meant a lot to me. Sit down and write out which extra chores you will do to pay for it. I'll let you know if your list is enough."
Of course, you must be consistent in making him do the chores.
- Christopher behaved out of disobedience and carelessness. You've told him many times not to throw ball in the house. He didn't listen. He did what he wanted. Give him the same discipline as Taylor. In addition, put all his balls in Time Out for a week. When time out for the balls is over, the balls stay outside. Christopher is not allowed to bring them in the house.
- Katie's behavior was an accident. You tell yourself, 'This behavior is a rare event and she'll try hard not to do it again.' You turn to Katie, "I know it was an accident, clean the floor and the bowl. Try to be more careful next time." You decide not to discipline her further.
Conclusion for Disciplining Kids Who Break Things:
Parenting takes rational thinking. Sometimes you need to decide your child's motivation. Your decision will determine your discipline. Make sure you follow through. Next time you say something, they'll listen.
Our next blog will have 3 more common discipline problems about chores. Get them, by signing up at Parenting Skills Blog and they'll arrive in your email.
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