Watching Dr. Phil tell it like it is. Some people don't like how blunt he is but most of the time he's just being clear and direct. Which is exactly what most parents could be.
Many of us as parents have struggled at one time or another with how to effectively discipline our children. Do we spank our children, do we condemn them to time out or do we just let them do what they want and hope for the best? Our good friend and parenting expert, Dr. Jane Nelsen has written 18 books on parenting. I have to admit, I have only read a handful of her books. (Get to know her in this quick video I produced for her) Read more below...
One of the things Eileen and I appreciate about her positive discipline approach is this. Connection Before Correction is the best way to go. What that means is that you never attempt to discipline anyone while you are angry or frustrated. Always wait a while, cool off, look for the learning opportunity and then connect on an emotional and respectful level. Connection Before Correction is defined by Dr. Nelsen like this:
Create closeness and trust instead of distance and hostility by making sure the message of love gets through. Here are some ways to say it:
"I love you and the answer is, no."
"You are more important to me than your grades. What do your grades mean to you?"
"I love you and have faith that we can find a respectful solution."
If you want to learn more of Dr. Jane Nelsen's Positive Discipline approach to child discipline, check out her website at www.PositiveDiscipline.com