Positive Discipline (PD) is a parenting method developed by Dr. Jane Nelsen and based on the work of Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs. The goal of PD is to help young people become responsible, respectful, and resourceful members of their communities.
PD teaches social and life skills in a way that is both respectful and encouraging, not just for children but for the adults in their lives as well!
Research tells us that from birth, children are hardwired to seek connection with others. It is children who do not feel a sense of connection to their family, school, and community that are most likely to misbehave. PD helps children feel connected and understood while also teaching critical social and life skills that will help them become contributing, productive members of their community.
Positive Discipline is based on the understanding that discipline must be taught and that discipline teaches.
FIVE CRITERIA FOR EFFECTIVE DISCIPLINE
Effective discipline…
1) Helps children feel a sense of connection. (Belonging and significance)
2) Is mutually respectful and encouraging. (Kind and firm at the same time.)
3) Is effective long - term. (Considers what the child is thinking, feeling, learning, and deciding about himself and his world – and what to do in the future to survive or to thrive.)
4) Teaches important social and life skills . (Respect, concern for others, problem solving, and cooperation as well as the skills to contribute to the home, school or larger community.)
5) Invites children to discover how capable they are. (Encourages the constructive use of personal power and autonomy.)
Tools and Concepts of Positive Discipline
Mutual Respect! - Adults model firmness by respecting themselves and the needs of the situation, and kindness by respecting the needs of the child.
Identifying Beliefs Behind Behaviors - Effective discipline recognizes the reasons kids do what they do and works to change those beliefs, rather than merely attempting to change behavior.
Effective Communication and Problem Solving Skills
Discipline that Teaches (not punitive or permissive)
Focus on Solutions instead of punishment
Encouragement instead of praise