Parent Partnerships

Let Consequences do the Talking

By Michael Grose

Behavioural consequences are a parent’s best friends. When consistently applied, behavioural consequences will improve kids’ behaviour and increase personal responsibility.

Too often parents will over talk or repeat themselves to get cooperation from their kids. Too much talk and most kids tune out.

Alternatively, parents who protect their kids from the consequences of poor or selfish behaviour aren’t doing them any favours as they are robbing them of terrific learning opportunities.

I love the notion of behavioural consequences as they teach kids to take responsibility for their lives and to make smarter choices. They are also a non-punitive discipline measure, enabling kids to keep their dignity and ensuring that learning is maximised. Parents can use two types of behavioural consequences: natural and logical.

Natural consequences

A natural consequence involves no adult interference. For instance, a child who leaves an excursion note at home will miss the excursion; a child who spends all his pocket money on the first day will have nothing for the weekend and a child who oversleeps and misses the bus walks to school. In these examples, children learn from the direct consequences of their own decisions and thus they are not protected from negative outcomes by their parents. “It’s your fault, mum!” Some kids are experts at manipulating their parents to rescue them from experiencing the consequences of their poor choices.

They’ll blame their parents for not getting them out of bed on time, or for not reminding them about their responsibilities. It’s best to stand back and let the consequences work their magic!

NOTE: you shouldn’t use natural consequences when safety is an issue. Act decisively to ensure your child is safe.

Logical consequences

A logical consequence is used more frequently in family situations as it is the type of consequence that requires some form of adult intervention. A logical consequence is used when a child’s behaviour disturbs other people, infringes on others’ rights or is unsafe. A child who makes a noise in the family room is asked to leave; children who refuse to clean up their toys lose them for a period of time; a child who comes home late from a friend’s house loses the right to go out next time.

The 3 Rs of logical consequences

Consequences often involve the withdrawal of a privilege or a right. For example, a teenager who spends more time than agreed on Facebook may lose access to technology for a day or two. Restitution, or making up to someone for unfair treatment or for loss of a possession, is another form of consequence.

A child who wilfully breaks his sister’s toy may make full or part payment for a replacement. In both these examples the consequences are related to the child’s misdemeanours, are reasonable and are respectful of their dignity.