Stop Power Struggles with Kids

Using Natural Consequences

When kids don’t wear their coat, they get cold. When children refuse to eat, they become hungry. When they don’t use an umbrella in the rain, they get wet.

The concept of using natural consequences to teach children, rather than punishing them, is allowing things to happen naturally, without adult interference.

In the book Positive Discipline Jane Nelsen explains that using natural consequences to teach children helps bridge communication gaps, defuse power struggles, build on strengths not weaknesses, and holds children accountable with their self-respect intact.

Of course structure is still important. Nannies and parents must insist some rules be strictly followed. Children can’t be allowed to hurt other people, put themselves in danger, or allowed to do things that adversely affect their health or well-being. For example, they can’t hit other kids, they must brush their teeth, and they cannot be allowed to run into the street.

But rather than nitpick, nag, and argue with kids all day long, make suggestions and let them learn the consequences of their behaviors when they aren’t hurting themselves or others.

To learn more about using natural consequences and positive discipline read Positive Disciplineby Jane Nelsen.

 You can purchase your own copy by clicking a link above or below:

Positive Discipline