Non-physical discipline Explanations and reasoning are always the first line of approach, but they need to be appropriate for the age of the child. Distraction is helpful with young children. Bad behavior may quickly end if the child can find a better alternative. Verbal reprimands and reminders work best when they focus on the problem behavior. Emphasize what's wrong with the action.
Time outs provide a space for breaking out of a cycle, calming down, and trying again.
Grounding and loss of privileges should be a final recourse. If explanations and reminders aren't working in a particular situation, a child needs to experience logical consequences for misbehavior. We need to stop spanking. And it may take us a major step forward into a less violent world.