If you’ve been parenting with connection, you might find a stark contrast between your approach to discipline and what those around you expect. It’s tough when well-meaning family, friends or members of your community intervene
Your toddler may stand defiantly at the sink and refuse to brush their teeth. They may run from the table when you serve ANY food that isn’t starchy and white. They may prefer to tip
Ever told your child not to start playing blocks and then watched as they dump out the whole basket? Have you asked your child repeatedly to feed their pet and still find the food bowl
Occasionally he would slow down enough to look over his shoulder to make sure I was with him. I’d say, “Yes, I’m still here. I love you. You can be as mad as you need to be and I’m going to stay with you.” The he’d keep on ‘running’. I have to admit it was hard not to chuckle at how sweet he was, with his little arms pumping away trying to get as far away from me as he could.
Well, I have bad news for you. It’s true that timeouts are infinitely better than hitting, and yelling. But Timeouts teach the wrong lessons, and they don’t work to create better behaved children.