Discipline Tip—Use Less Words

• Listening more and talking less are what I work on constantly.
• When a child misbehaves, use as few words as possible.  Sometimes a look or the word, “STOP” is enough to stop a behavior.  Use time-out or move them if necessary.
• If a child needs to be talked to about a problem, make it one on one, if at all possible. Have them tell you the problem and have them give you solutions to the problem.  You act as the sounding board.  Have them commit to new behavior.  Have the commitments be positive.  (Use nice words, keeps hands to myself, etc.)
• Older children can make a written commitment or promise and sign it.

Good luck on your commitment to talk less and listen more.