Creative Discipline: 11 Fun Ways to Raise Kind Kids Without Drama

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Parenting often comes with the challenging task of discipline, and let’s be honest, it’s not the most enjoyable part of the job. It can lead to mood swings all around, and before you know it, you’re threatening to banish screen time forever—definitely not ideal. I dislike seeing my kids feel upset, but I believe in the importance of letting them experience failure now, rather than when they’re faced with significant life choices later on.

RELATED: Strategies for Effectively Disciplining Your Little Ones

Since we all want our children to grow into empathetic adults—and not entitled brats—my partner, Dave, and I have discovered some inventive approaches to discipline over the years. Here are some of the techniques that have worked for us:

1. Speak Softly and Calmly
   I’ve mastered the art of calm conversation. Nothing gets their attention quite like a serene parent discussing consequences after a chaotic moment. Getting down to their level and whispering, “You’ll need to apologize now, or we can discuss this later,” usually does the trick.
2. Reciprocal Consequences
   Letting the offended sibling have a turn at play can work wonders. If one child douses the other with water, a little turnabout can teach empathy and fairness.
3. Trash Bags for Tidying Up
   This is my go-to method for toy cleanup. When they ignore my requests, I simply grab a garbage bag and start tossing toys inside. Just mentioning that I’ll clean up myself often gets them moving quickly to help out.
4. Manual Labor Magic
   On particularly whiny days, we’ve had the kids don gloves and long pants to tackle the thistles in our yard. It’s hard work and a great attitude adjustment—plus, it keeps them occupied and productive.
5. Empowering the Injured Party
   Sometimes, letting the sibling who’s been wronged choose the consequence can be effective, as long as they understand the concept of accountability.
6. Allowing Kids to Set Their Own Consequences
   When kids choose their own discipline, they often come up with something more challenging than what I would have suggested. Just don’t let on that you think it’s a good idea!
7. Duct Tape Fun
   In our household, we’ve used duct tape to stick away favorite toys temporarily when behavior gets out of hand. It’s a quirky approach that seems to bring some humor to the situation.
8. Warning About Consequences
   Communicate clearly about the consequences of their actions. For instance, “If your behavior continues, we won’t be going to the park.” And when you say it, stick to it. Consistency is key!
9. Running Off Steam
   A technique passed down from my parents: when chaos ensues, make the kids run around the house. Pick a number, and it doesn’t take long for them to tire out and tone down their antics.
10. Separation for Reflection
    You’d be surprised how much kids crave each other’s company. Keeping them apart can make them appreciate each other a little more, and they’ll often behave better once reunited.
11. Unleashing Your Inner Wild Parent
    Sometimes, it helps to show a little bit of your crazy side. Letting them know that you have a limit can add a layer of respect to your relationship.

Discipline looks different for everyone, and I know some may raise an eyebrow at our methods. Nevertheless, kids are remarkably resilient, so I trust that our style will serve them well.

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Summary

Creative discipline can take on many forms, and finding the right approach for your family is essential. From speaking calmly to implementing unique consequences, the goal is to foster empathy and responsibility in your children. With a little creativity, you can navigate the ups and downs of parenting while raising kind, respectful kids.