Consequences for behavior don’t need to come immediately. Sometimes it is more effective to wait. The next time dad is taking the kids to frozen yogurt you can say something like, “Sorry you don’t get to go because last time we went someplace fun you threw a fit when we were leaving.” Another example might be, “I’m sorry you don’t get to go to your friends today. Remember last night I told you if you didn’t stay in bed we’d have to think of a consequence. Well, I think this is a good consequence.” It’s a way to really help them understand that every negative behavior results in a negative outcome. It also is a way for you to be able to give them a discipline that might really speak to them. It also gives you some thinking time to come up with something appropriate. Not being able to participate in something fun can really speak to most kids.
I agree. Of course some situations require immediate consequences, but this really helps when you might be angry about your child’s actions and need to cool off. Thanks for sharing at Mom’s Library!