Foster Care Class #5- DISCIPLINE!

I think this was my favorite class so far... although, they have ALL been helpful and extremely informative. I tried to take it all in last night. It was so good, I thought I'd share it with you other parents.
(Information taken from Humlong, George. "Adding to your Discipline Toolbox" 9/08)

Develop a discipline plan BEFORE it's needed. Explain it to the child so they know their expectations.

1. Be reasonable (match your expectations to the child's developmental level)
2. Explain what you want (as often as it takes, tell them why and repeat, put it in writing and post it, take photos of the good behavior)
3. Explain the consequences you are willing to put forth (take a picture of the child in time out and a picture of the toy in time out- show and explain)
4. Give the child time to process (don't give an immediate consequence)
5. Active listening (focus on the child, look them in the eye, identity their emotions, and paraphrase what you hear)
6. Do not bluff... even once (pick your battles, follow through)

Ways to deal with any behavior

• be a role model
• provide the child with time out
• provide positive reinforcers/ privileges
• take away privileges
• provide natural and logical consequences
• ignore the behavior
• ensure that restitution occurs
• hold family meeting
• develop behavioral charts
• provide alternatives for destructive acting out behaviors
• make a plan for change with child
• make a plan for change with child and a professional
• Use grandma's rule (this for that)
• help the child to understand feelings
• replace negative time with positive time

He also talked about the importance of the child seeing healthy conflict resolution between the parents. He said to discuss conflict sitting down at the table together.

Thanks George!