How effective discipline should be in 5-year-old children

Discipline in 5-year-olds will require flexibility and mental agility on the part of the parents. With a 5-year-old, what works one day doesn’t always work another day. If you have a 5-year-old son or daughter, you will have realized how they want to be more and more independent. It relentlessly seeks its autonomy and this for you and your upbringing can present new challenges, especially in relation to behavior or discipline needs.

Your child may have new behaviors to experience sensations or test established limits. In your parenting with children of this age, you should use trial and error to see what works best for your child.

THE BEHAVIOR OF 5-YEAR-OLD BOYS AND GIRLS

By the age of 5, a child’s personality will shine through as he develops a greater understanding of himself, his relationships, and the world around him. New skills and talents often begin to develop and it can be a year filled with wonderful developmental gains.

Most 5-year-olds understand good and differentiate it from evil, but they are still mired in magical thinking where anything is possible.  They can follow simple rules and often aspire to please adults.  However, they do not understand the logic of adults, so it is sometimes difficult for them to make healthy decisions.

At this age they tend to have relationships with friends of the same sex, want to fit in with other children and tease those who do not get along with them. They may want to command others and this can be difficult for other children who are more sensitive.

At the age of 5 it is important that they begin to develop good impulse control, although now only work in this area begins since they can yell, say things they do not feel or have tantrums … and it is totally normal. Sometimes they will want to test the rules and limits but at the same time, they are able to have a better understanding of the direct consequences of their behavior.

THE BEST DISCIPLINE FOR 5-YEAR-OLD BOYS AND GIRLS

You need to keep in mind that the discipline you use must adapt to your child’s temperament and be aware that perhaps what works for your neighbor’s child does not have to work for you. Do not miss these tips to make discipline at this age effective:

1-Establish clear limits. Your child needs clear rules at home and consistent boundaries. Prevent behavior problems by keeping your discipline constant and following through with the positive and negative consequences depending on how your behavior is.

2-Offers limited options. 5-year-olds want to feel in control but need help learning to make good decisions. Offers limited options for teaching your child problem-solving skills. You can ask questions like, “Would you rather clean your room before or after dinner?” Any choice is a good answer, as long as it is made.

3-Correct indications. Your child needs to know what you expect from him exactly and for this, he needs you to give him clear and concrete instructions, you must make sure that he listens to you. To know that your child listens to you, establish physical and visual contact before trying to give instructions. After giving directions, ask your child to repeat what you’ve said to make sure they understand.

4-Praise whenever necessary. Give your child praise and encouragement to promote good behavior. This will give you the confidence you need to know that you are on the right track.

5-That there is no lack of alternatives. When your child misbehaves, teach him alternative ways to meet his needs. If he throws a toy on the ground when he is angry, you should teach him anger management techniques, such as breathing and counting to ten. This will give you time to calm your mind and find more effective alternatives to your anger.