Discipline in early childhood

Discipline is defined in this article as a structure that adults set up for a child's life that is designed to allow the child to fit into the real world happily and effectively. Using this definition, the author elaborates the theoretic basis for optimal discipline to promote the child's sense of being lovable and capable. Techniques are described for attending to the child, listening actively, and verbally conveying positive regard. Skills for promoting the child's sense of capability are described, including routines, models, instruction, expectations, choices, role-taking, praise, and appropriate consequences, both natural and logical, including effective use of time out.