Reinforcing School Discipline

Each and every day, your child learns and experiences both positive and negative ideals and habits from their peers. As parents, we want our kids to do and be their best. But, as parents, we also know that, at times, our kids are bound to do something that just isn't very smart. What should you do if you receive a call from the teacher, or get a notice that your child is being disciplined and there is a problem with classroom behavior?

Tips for parents to deal with classroom behavior issues:

• Count to 10. Or better yet, wait about a half an hour, or until you have had time to fully read and understand the notice that you’ve received. Don't immediately call the teacher and angrily demand more information. Read the notice again. When you can think clearly, and are less emotional, give the school or teacher a call to get more information.
• Talk to your child. It may be helpful to do this before you call the school or teacher. Find out your child's side of the story and listen to his account of the incident.
• Get both sides of the story and listen objectively. Refrain from passing judgment until you have the facts. Both your child and teacher / school likely have legitimate points of view that should be considered.
• Set up a reward system to encourage good classroom behavior.
• Get answers to any questions you have for both your child and school.
• If the discipline is warranted, support the school’s decision. Let your child know that you expect him to act in a respectful manner, both at home and at school.

Some possible at-home consequences may include:

• No television or computer for a specific period of time
• No cell pone privileges.
• Grounded from a specific activity (social media, texting, etc.)

Make certain consequences are in line with the situation. Let your child know that you support him, but you do not support bad behavior. Your child is on a journey to adulthood, and it is your job to provide positive guideposts along the way.