Punishment

Here are some things to consider doing. Some items may not be applicable to you.

  • Avoid hitting your child—it may permanently injure him/her, it may lead to increased violence which may permanently injure him/her, it teaches him/her that violence is a valid way to handle situations‚ it might be illegal

Before administering punishment:

  • If feasible, discuss the situation with your child’s other parent before deciding on a punishment
  • Ask your child what he/she thinks the punishment should be
  • Ensure the punishment helps to deter misbehavior in the future, e.g., helps your child understand why what they did was wrong
  • Consider the following types of punishment:
    • Time out allows you and your child to calm down
    • Restrict where he/she can go
    • Restrict privileges
    • Have him/her perform chores and/or community service

When administering punishment:

  • Ensure you never hit your child may permanently injure him/her may lead to increased violence which may permanently injure him/her teaches him/her that violence is a valid way to handle situations it might be illegal
  • Ensure your child understands why the punishment is being administered and specifically why what they did was wrong (e.g., what happened or could have happened because of their misbehavior)
  • Ask your child what the punishment should be if he/she misbehaves again in a similar manner

After administering punishment:

  • Tell your child how much you love him/her

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