It teaches responsibility, respect for self and others, problem solving skills, self-control, and independent thinking. Discipline helps children feel secure. Adults should be aware of what children can do at what ages and levels of development if realistic guidelines are put in place. Adults must talk with children about what is expected and what is needed by both adult and child in the teaching situation. To tell a child what not to do does not teach that child what is expected.
Effective discipline begins with good communication.
Discipline is not to be confused with punishment. Discipline builds character and helps children move from a stage of dependence on others to a stage of dependence on self with knowledge of when and on whom to call for assistance and support. Punishment makes one feel unworthy, unloved and ashamed. Punishment may change undesirable behaviors for a short term but it will not teach positive alternatives to those behaviors. For those who work with children, it is good to review information that provides an overview of the ages and stages of children's development.