When the Express was a little younger, like six months ago, time outs still worked. Then we went on to getting in his face. But that's so yesterday...he's over it. Taking away the favorite toy of the second? He forgets about it. Privilege removal? MMMmm...no. Find the right method of discipline and learning how to deal with his sassiness has been a challenge. And "no-"filled days can leave all of us frazzled. Poor little Q...the first words out of his mouth will be "Would you please STOP!"
E.S. Zagorsky Goldberg just did a review of "Playful Parenting" by child psychologist Dr. Lawrence Cohen. The book focuses on using humor instead of a hard hand in dealing with discipline issues. Goldberg read the book and tried some of its tips with her three kids. She asked Dr. Cohen why being playful is better than the standard time out...
"Cohen suggested going 'bbeyond the idea of obedience. Blind obedience to our superior size and force is not going to last. What lasts is the kind of cooperation, good judgment and sense that develops out of a close, loving relationship. That's the basis for good values and good judgment. And it's much more useful than obedience.'"
She said Dr. Cohen also stressed putting "playfulness into everyday situations," as opposed to just when your kids are in need of discipline.
I've got this book on my list...have you read it? If so, has it worked for you?
