There's no denying the importance of discipline in parenting. Discipline is one of the purest forms of expression of love since it reflects the desire of parents to guide their child to grow up with the right attitude and right values.
But just like anything, there's a right way and there's a wrong way to discipline children.
At the heart of parenting is a reflection of the very nature of God as a Father to us all. Hebrews 12:6 tells us, "For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives."
Just as God disciplines us because He loves us, we as parents are to discipline our children as well because we love them.
Have you ever disciplined you child thinking, "Am I doing this right?" Every parent has been there and we've probably even made mistakes in disciplining children. But we can always correct what we do wrong.
Here are five ways to discipline our children in the right way.
1. Discipline Neutrally
Ephesians 4:6 tells us, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."
Our tendency is usually to mix discipline with anger, but this is not helpful and can only cause an unhealthy kind of fear. We are to discipline our children with as much neutrality as possible.
2. Discipline in Love
The most important part of discipline is giving affirmation after the punishment. Without an expression of love, discipline becomes nothing more than revenge or retaliation.
Discipline is best done in the context of positive affection. Giving a child a hug, a pat on the back, a kiss on the forehead or any other physical form of affection is most helpful.
3. Discipline With Instruction
Sometimes we tend to discipline without redirecting our children. This just leaves them confused and unaware of how to avoid correction again. After discipline must come instruction so we can bring our children down the right path.
4. Discipline Without Bias
One of the surest ways to ruin your children is to show favouritism. If we refuse to discipline one child because he is the eldest, or the youngest, or the smarter one or the funnier one, this promises nothing good.
5. Discipline With Understanding
When disciplining our children, it's also good to hear their side of the story. Sure most of what they'll say will most likely be just excuses, but at least we give them a chance to speak their mind and also get a good grasp of why they do what they did and learn which attitudes to correct.
