To Discipline or Not to Discipline....

that is the question.

I don't know about you, but discipline (giving it or receiving it) is super hard!

There are soooo many people that have techniques, ideas that number the stars, almost like dieting books. If someone figures out a something that works they write a book so it is recorded for all of history. I haven't figured it out yet, but I am closer than I was before!

My mom is SUPER lax when it comes to discipline, and since she watches the kids while I work it affects me and my hubby in how we discipline. My dad was SUPER authoritarian, the exact opposite of my mom. 

That makes me somewhere in the middle as a parent now. I think between my hubby and I we have worked out a good system...the rule of threes: http://katshel.blogspot.com/2012/10/three-rules.html

But not just for bed time!! 

Three rules for TimeOut: 1-Naughty with your body, 2-Naughty with your mouth, 3-Naughty to your ears

Thee rules for Guests: 1-Guests Rule!, 2-Doors stay open, 3-Ask before you do

Three rules to play outside: 1-Stay in Communication, 2-Don't Enter, 3-Come when Called

We work on one or two lessons at a time. Anymore than that and the lesson is lost. I have also learned consistency is key to teach the lesson well. I have to admit I don't think I do well with consistency, but I am better now than when the 9 year old was 3. Currently we are working on Not Touching Things that aren't Yours and Healthy Food Choices for the 9 year old.For the 3 year old...we are mastering the basics of TimeOut, and BedTime.

We started discipline from the beginning...around 4-6 months when the kids would try and roll away while we were getting em diapered or dressed. We rolled em back, looked in their little faces and said No, while holding them still for about 5-10 seconds before starting again. 

Some friends ask me for help with their teens...sorry I am not there yet....I am 9! :)

Don't forget to pray for your little ones too...the Bible speaks about discipline too!! 

If you are at your witts end, just remember-1 you are not alone, 2-you can do all things through Christ who gives you strength, 3-Consistency,and simplicity!!