I can't discipline my child.

Be

Bec. 👨‍👩‍👦 🦘 🍺

Let me first say "discipline" currently involves a stern voice and removal from the situation as my son is only 1. And it's not that I don't want too, but are unable to properly follow through as my child thinks almost everything is funny.

Taking object from him =funny.

Removing him from object = funny

Stern voice = funny

Straight, disappointed face = funny.

This is a problem, because his cheeky smile and grin are infectious to which my husband and I cannot keep a straight face.

There are the occasional STOP or NO that do work, but this results in a dropped lip and full tears.

Its not out of control and currently he is learning his bounderies and surrounding so it's not an intentional disregard for the rules.

Does anyone have any suggested middle ground for a toddler.

164 views • 2 upvotes • 4 comments

COMMENT (4)

Mo

Posted at
The not being able to keep a straight face while being stern is a problem. It's mixed cues, because he's learning that when you're "serious" you really aren't serious and he can charm and manipulate you. No bueno. If you can't legitimately be stern, then don't be stern at all from the get-go. Just say in a happy cheerful tone "we can't have that my lovey!" and take it from him. Better to be cheerful from the get-go of redirecting him than "I'm very unhappy and serious....but awwww...you're too cute so SMILES!" See what I mean? Then when you truly are serious to the point you're not smiling, it doesn't work so he cries (do you soften up when he does? If yes, it's reinforcing the crying) If you pick a battle, you have to win, otherwise it's better to just not pick it from the beginning. By the way, we mostly do the "happy discipline" technique with our younger kids after learning from our older ones, so I'm totally not knocking you for the smiles cuz he's cute thing, just saying that means you have to change your techniques so you don't send mixed messages.

Be

Bec. 👨‍👩‍👦 🦘 🍺 • Feb 19, 2021
Thank you, it's good to get perspective.

Ch

Chelsea • Feb 12, 2021
I agree with this!

Ka

Posted at
I agree with the other commenter about the mixed signals but it's so hard..my husband and I are so guilty of this to. My husband more so than me will crack up at him where I'm trying to be very stern I have to walk away to laugh because I can't help it.. their facial expressions are so funny sometimes.