How do other mothers discipline their unruly children?
I believe that there is never a good reason to hit a child. Parents are much bigger and have a lot more power. Using physical violence only teaches children to bully smaller people. I am the mother of four children (former toddlers!), and I co-facilitate parenting classes in my city. I often talk with parents who are confused about discipline issues and see either permissive or authoritarian parenting as the only two choices. There are other choices, sometimes called “loving guidance,” “connected parenting,” or “gentle discipline.” This kind of parenting is respectful and firm, and not in any way permissive. We often expect too much of our toddlers. It’s not developmentally appropriate for them to do whatever we say, or to know how to share and respect others’ space. Children need to be gently taught in these skills, mostly through demonstration, and with patience and kindness. Set limits respectfully. Say, “I won’t let you hit your friend” as you hold the hand in mid-air, and also ack
