Sometimes parents need to get creative when it comes to punishments, especially as children get older. What worked when they were younger usually will not continue working as they get older. In addition, what works for one child may not work for every child. I have three daughters and their personalities are all very different and unique, which forced me to come up with original ideas. Try these five creative punishments when you have tried traditional punishments to no avail.
#1 Community services
When children participate in community services, they are doing a good deed and helping others. It forces them to think of someone other than themselves. They may even realize how good they really have things compared to others. The following are some community service ideas to use as a punishment:
*Helping at a soup kitchen
*Picking up garbage at a local park
*Volunteering at church
*Visiting a nursing home
#2 Movies with a message
Many movies carry good messages. I have made my daughter watch "Never Been Kissed" as a punishment. While it is one of my favorite movies, she thought it was boring. This movie starring Drew Barrymore has a great message about being yourself rather than trying to fit in with other people. Other movies to consider using for punishment include:
*"Veggie Tales" (this is a series with numerous titles and messages)
*"Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" (teaches honesty)
*"War Games" (promotes non-violent behavior)
*"Akeelah and the Bee" (teaches the importance of education)
#3 Parent's helper
As a punishment, insist that your child go everywhere with you and help you. If you go grocery shopping, they must go along and be put to work. When you cook or clean, they will be right alongside helping. After cleaning toilets, they may rethink their actions in the future.
#4 Exercise as physical punishment
Make your child perform pushups, jumping jacks or do the wall sit as a form of punishment. They won't enjoy being forced to work out, and they will gain physical strength at the same time, making it a healthy punishment.
#5 Using allowance for a good deed
If your child gets an allowance, consider making them use it for a good deed rather than taking it away when they get in trouble. The following are excellent ideas of how they can use their money to benefit others:
*Donating to a charity or food bank
*Giving their allowance as a church contribution
*Buying a gift for a sibling, especially if sibling rivalry caused the problem
*Buying a gift for underprivileged kids, especially during the holidays
Children are a great blessing, but they must be punished for their wrongdoings so they don't continue down the wrong path. I hope these five creative discipline ideas work for your family as they have for mine.
More from Rebecca Bardelli:
5 tips to prevent middle child syndrome
10 Tips for Keeping Your School-Aged Children Active During Winter
Nutrition Tips for Athletic Children