Guiding Preschoolers Toward Self-Discipline

The Dare to Discipline

The word "discipline" is the best word to describe the process of helping a child grow as Jesus grew. In Luke 2:52, the Bible tells us that "Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and with people."

The process of developing discipline allows a child to grow in what and how he thinks and how he relates to God and people around him. Discipline becomes a system of consistent choices, consequences and boundaries. Discipline's ultimate goal is self-discipline. In other words, when left alone, the child will make right choices based on what is right, not based on the likelihood of being caught.

The focus of discipline is to create an environment for the child to own his behavior and look down the road at the consequences of his behavior. This can be accomplished by creating a track record of right choices and personal responsibility. The question every teacher should ask is "What can the child learn from this situation?" rather than "How can I punish him for what he did?"

Tips for Guiding Behavior

• Look at the Whole Picture 
  Is my child sick, tired or hungry? It is difficult for a child to think clearly when they have basic needs unmet. Sometimes parents treat the symptoms instead of the cause. With middle and younger preschoolers, it may be the environment or something in the environment that is tempting them to misbehave. Remove the item.
• Be Consistent 
  Two statements: "Say what you mean and mean what you say" and "Don't start something you can't finish." Consistency is the key to helping your child become self-disciplined.
• Give Options 
  OK, it is time to go to bed. Rather than saying, "Casey are you ready for bed?" Say: "Casey, it is time for bed. Would you like to brush your teeth first or put on your pajamas?"
• Teach Consequences of Actions
  Attempt to find consequences that fit the action. Example: You tell the children to pick up the toys before bedtime. You discover that they did not. Put the toys in a bag and place them in the attic for a day.
• Give Clear Instructions 
  Young children do not speak adult. Make sure the children understand.

"Discipline" should not be confused with the word "punishment." "Discipline" comes from the word matheteno, which means "to become a pupil" or "to disciple, to teach." This word is very positive.

God has given parents the authority to guide their children toward a disciplined lifestyle of service to Him and others. Teachers and parents should not get that confused with ruthless power. Shaping a child in the image of God takes the patience and wisdom to look at the growth over time, not just in one instance.