Understanding Positive Discipline

"Emotional intelligence begins to develop in the early years. All the small exchanges children have with their parents, teachers and with each other carry emotional messages." - Daniel Goleman

Humans are hardwired to connect with others. It's a phenomenon experienced from birth, throughout childhood and into adulthood that shapes the way people communicate, express feelings and socialize in their environments. This connection within a community is the seed for success and requires proper discipline that is both effective and encouraging. The strategy outlined by Positive Discipline is a practice that can be exercised to build a strong community of responsibility, respect and encouragement. 

According to Dr. Jane Nelsen, author of the bestselling Positive Discipline books, there are five criteria for effective classroom discipline: 

1.       Helps children feel a sense of connection. 

2.      Is mutually respectful and encouraging. 

3.      Is effective long-term, meaning that it considers what the child is thinking, feeling and learning about themselves and their world and how that will apply to a thriving future. 

4.      Teaches important social and life skills.

5.      Invites children to discover how capable they are. 

A proactive approach to positive discipline will not only create an environment that stimulates children's thoughts and abilities, but one that encourages a consistent routine for students and parents. In many school districts, teachers and parents constantly debate what proper classroom discipline looks like. By using the Positive Discipline model, all parties are in sync with the ultimate goal: secure, intelligent and successful children. 

5 Tools and Concepts of Implementing the Positive Discipline Model Into Classroom Discipline:

1.       Identifying the belief behind the behavior - examining the reasons behind what a child does and why they do it. 

2.      Effective communication and problem solving skills.

3.      Discipline that teaches and is neither permissive nor punitive. 

4.      Focusing on solutions instead of punishment.

5.      Encouragement instead of praise. 

Classroom discipline is as difficult topic, but approaching it in a democratic manner builds a strong foundation that children can build from. What are your thoughts on the positive discipline model? 

Photo Credit: woodleywonderworks