Dear Editor,
Many factors contribute to indiscipline but the lack of a secure family environment and the demise of the extended family are major contributors. Family structures have changed; extended families have been replaced by nuclear families with working parents; while single and blended families make up a large percentage of our population.
Children today are exposed to images and experiences of violence in their everyday lives – at school, at home, in the community, through the media in the form of violent cartoons and television programmes. We live in a technological age where children have easy access to various kinds of information. Children are confronted with a multiplicity of challenges.
Parents and educators agree that today’s children must learn critical thinking, problem-solving, conflict resolution and effective communication skills, while developing responsibility, confidence and self-discipline to function successfully in our changing world.
Teaching these skills necessitates that we demonstrate responsible behaviour by being good role models and disciplining our children effectively.
Discipline comes from the Latin word disciplina, meaning knowledge or instruction; it is not synonymous with punishment. Punishment is an action deliberately chosen to cause suffering.
Effective disciplinary strategies emphasize the importance of cultivating an atmosphere that demonstrates respect for children’s feelings and opinions. Listening is a key element; it is important to keep the lines of communication open and develop a trusting relationship with our children. This type of relationship helps to set appropriate limits and guidelines for our children, providing the opportunities for our children to become accountable.
Yours faithfully,
Mark Lewis
