Is It Really a Discipline Problem?

This is a topic I can go deep on, but I will keep to the basics.

Behavior often comes from a child not knowing how to communicate their needs. Their needs are not being met. They do not have the proper words to explain how they are feeling or what they are thinking.

Behavior can also be a child reacting to the chemicals running havoc in their bodies. I have a training, Food and Behavior, where I cover this topic in greater depth. (Available on my Skool Page, Living Ready Collective.)

Many times, food dyes and chemicals can cause acting out. Gluten sensitivity can cause rage.

In my parenting classes, I recommend creating a few household rules with clear-cut consequences. I had 3. They were given one warning. Then they experienced a consequence. The parent must be consistent.

Children need parents to express their love in their specific love language. (Explained in my parenting classes.) **There are five love languages. Most people understand love expressed in a combination of two. Children often need love expressed in all five languages until they are older.

What helped with my children was that I started using reflective and active listening. I also apologized when I messed up. They heard me confess what I did wrong, and then they heard me pray about it. I would also ask them to help me if I forgot. LOL.

They thought that was funny. It helped ME as much as it helped them.

I learned from my teaching experiences that when junk was removed from the diet (especially gluten and ultra-processed foods), behavior improved. Having few rules with clear consequences and following through every time works.

We are not born knowing how to communicate effectively. Most adults do not know how to communicate effectively. {I have a training, Kids Speak 101, available.} Demonstrating effective communication goes a long way to helping our children find the words to express themselves, rather than resorting to misbehavior.

Feel free to contact me for more information on my available trainings at kindlingdreams.com.