Enjoying your children #2

On Discipline!  Always be consistent in discipline.  Once children know what to expect, life gets a much more pleasant for both of you.  If you say it, you must follow through no matter the crying, pleading, and the sweet "i'm sorry mama".  For example, if you say "We are leaving the park the next time you throw sand" then you must leave the next time they throw sand.  If you don't, it's really not fair to the child.  How are they supposed to know when you mean it and when you are just kidding.  They have no idea when you are serious.  If you develop consequences to behavior, you must follow through.  Don't make it a guessing game.  Also, let them know you are serious.  Look them in the eye, bend down to their level (don't call out from the bench where you are visiting with a friend), and speak as if you explaining something.  There's know need to be harsh.  Explain, "The consequence for throwing sand is to leave the park.....or sit in time-out....or whatever."  If you know you won't follow through, so will they.  If they don't stop the behavior you have warned them about, look to your own past behavior.  Unless your child can't learn, you are not being consistent.   I can't tell you how extremely important consistency is for your child's good behavior and peace of mind.  They really do want to please you.  Show them how!