DISCIPLINE….A word that raises eyebrows whenever it’s used due to the context it is in reference to. Discipline can have different meanings to each individual when asked on the spot. What does it actually mean? Webster’s children’s dictionary defines it “as training that teaches one to obey rules and control one’s behavior; self-control; orderliness; to punish.” This ten-letter word causes quite a stir-up when it comes to the phrase “how does one discipline their child?”

Why is discipline so important in everyone’s life for successful coexistence? Discipline is necessary for both mind and body and soul. You know the old saying. “Without discipline Johnny will grow up to be an unruly child.” No truer words could have been said. Many people frown upon the idea of discipline but if not started at a young age in life, children will not be able to focus and control their behavior not only in school, but into the work force once they reach adulthood. Discipline keeps us and the world in order. It helps us to complete tasks and projects that are required of us in both school and the work force. Adults have to able to keep themselves in a positive and orderly frame of mind when they are at home and setting an example for their own children. “Monkey see, monkey do, Johnny does as he sees others do.”

Discipline helps us control our actions and words, especially when they may do more harm than good. An abrupt act or display of unfavorable words may put us in a situation that we may surely regret later on. I always tell my school children, “Think before you speak and make sure you wouldn’t want those same words used on you. How would you feel if you were at the receiving end?”

Disciplining is not an easy task for many adults when it comes to their children and especially, their grandchildren. They feel guilty and do not want to be classified as “the bad guy.” I remember when my husband and I were raising our daughter I was the tougher one and my husband, during the early years, couldn’t understand why one had to “put their foot down” when children were so young. Infants at the age of six months already know who the “soft” parent is. Without words of guidance and wisdom they will try to control the parent and bounce one right off the other.

I always tell my school children and parents that disciplining must come with patience, love and understanding. It truly hurts the adult more than the child. One must explain why a child has to be disciplined or reprimanded but only after the child can tell you what he or she has done and why. I always remind my school children that the best way to close a bad situation is to apologize and say three simple words, “I am sorry.”

Discipline is such a large topic that I will pick it up at another time. Good Luck and always remember you have the child at heart and believe it or not he or she will thank you for it later on in life!!!