Discipline isn’t about punishment. It’s about teaching your child how to behave properly and appropriately.

So, before you discipline…
 

• Clearly communicate how you want your child to behave. If you see inappropriate behavior, simply state “no hitting,” “no biting,” etc. and then propose another option, such as taking turns when playing.  
   
• Show good behavior by example. 
   
• Ignore undesirable behavior like whining or tantrums. Negative behaviors are often attention-seeking behaviors. Sometimes redirecting a tired, over-stimulated or cranky child can be effective.  
   
• Give your child some control by allowing him or her to make choices about food, clothing, toys, books, etc.  
   
• Make sure you praise your child when his or her behavior is appropriate.
   

If these strategies don’t work, a time out may be in order.
 

Rather than a punishment, a time out gives a child – and a parent – time to cool off and regroup. Be consistent, but don’t make a time out too long (usually 1 minute for each year of age is appropriate.) Try to give a few warnings before the time out. Briefly discuss, afterward, why the time out was necessary and what you expect in the future.

Click here for more information about discipline from the American Academy of Pediatrics.