In today’s world of increasing psychological and social challenges, the need for modern parenting approaches that support children’s mental and emotional well-being has become essential. Strict punishment and authoritarian instruction are no longer effective. Instead, parenting now focuses on self-discipline through communication, empathy, and mutual respect—methods that leave a lasting, positive impact on a child’s behavior and emotional development.
To explore these approaches further, an interview was conducted with Dr. Mahmoud Al-Tahamy, Professor of Behavioral Education in Early Childhood.
Goodbye to Yelling and Physical Punishment
While most parents do not prefer yelling at or hitting their children, stress and exhaustion often push them toward these behaviors. However, psychological and educational research confirms that yelling and physical punishment negatively affect children, creating a toxic emotional atmosphere filled with anxiety and tension that impacts the entire household. This highlights the parents’ role in adopting positive and constructive parenting methods.
Causes and Signs of Poor Parenting
The Importance of Effective Communication
Lack of clear boundaries and guidance: When limits are unclear, children may feel confused and insecure, which affects their behavior and emotional development.
Emotional neglect or lack of attention: Children need emotional support and care to develop a healthy personality; neglect is a key sign of ineffective parenting.
Steps Parents Can Take to Improve Their Parenting Style
Practice honest and effective communication, which strengthens the parent-child relationship and boosts the child’s self-confidence.
Set clear rules and boundaries, explaining the reasons behind them in an age-appropriate way.
Reinforce positive behavior through encouragement, praise, and supportive feedback.
Provide a safe and nurturing environment that encourages exploration and skill development.
Listen attentively to the child’s needs and respond positively.
Avoid physical or emotional punishment and seek alternative discipline methods.
11 Steps to Teaching Self-Discipline
Self-discipline is the core goal of positive parenting. It helps children understand the natural consequences of their actions rather than obeying out of fear.
1. Establish Routines and Clear Rules
Create simple daily schedules for sleep, meals, and play. Rules should be realistic and explained clearly, not imposed blindly.
2. Reinforce Positive Behavior
Praise specific actions such as: “You used your words well” instead of general compliments. Encourage independence and responsibility.
3. Teach Problem-Solving and Thinking Skills
Encourage critical thinking and offer choices to give the child a sense of control. Help them understand and manage difficult emotions instead of suppressing them.
4. Use Natural Consequences and Guidance
Allow children to experience logical outcomes of their actions in a safe environment. Guide them calmly without yelling or humiliation.
5. Provide Emotional Support and Attention
Spend quality time daily with your child. Misbehavior is often a sign of unexpressed emotions rather than intentional defiance.
6. Practice Patience and Consistency
Self-discipline develops gradually. Avoid verbal or physical punishment and remain consistent in your approach.
7. Solve Problems Collaboratively
Involve children in finding solutions instead of making all decisions for them. This builds responsibility and critical thinking.
8. Develop Communication Skills
Children raised in positive environments express emotions better, seek help, and resolve conflicts peacefully. Use simple language and listen without interrupting.
9. Praise Positive Actions
Celebrate moments when your child shares, helps others, or feels proud of an achievement.
10. Be a Role Model
Show your child how you practice self-discipline and manage conflicts calmly. Staying composed teaches more than words ever could.
11. Allow Children to Make Mistakes
Mistakes are powerful learning tools. Let your child occasionally face the consequences of forgetting homework or underpreparing for a test—this helps them improve next time.
In conclusion, positive parenting based on respect, empathy, and communication not only builds self-discipline but also raises emotionally balanced, confident, and resilient children—ready to face life’s challenges with maturity and self-awareness.
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