How to Step in a Sticky Situation

 

There are times when we see a parent disciplining a child in public at the grocery store, shopping center, or the pediatrician’s office. There isn’t a problem with discipline, but sometimes a frustrated parent can take it too far.

What do you do? Do you step in? Is it even your place to help?

Witnessing a parent discipline his/her child can be uncomfortable. However, a parent should discipline by guiding and teaching. A parent should NEVER be mean or harsh to the child. When this line is crossed in public, there are ways you can helpfully step in! Sometimes all a parent needs is some sympathy or a distraction. Read our tips on ways you can help…

1. “He seems to be trying your patience.”

2. “Is he tired? Does he need a nap?”

3. Empathize with the parent, i.e. “Children can wear you out, can’t they? Is there anything I can do to help?”

4. Also, empathizing with the child can be just as effective. For example, “You look tired. I bet you want to go home.”

5. Sometimes striking up a conversation is the easiest way to dissolve the situation. See if you can re-direct the parents attention away from the child.

6. Distracting the child by engaging in a conversation can calm the parent’s nerves.

7. If you fear the physical safety of the child is in danger alert the store manager.

8. Find something positive to say about the child to the parent, i.e. “She has beautiful eyes” or “What an adorable child.”

Parenting can be very stressful, and any assistance you can offer to allow a parent a few seconds to calm down could greatly help a child and a parent in the long run. Remember DISTRACTION is key!

Call KIDLINE, 1-800-CHILDREN [244-5373] for more parenting tips.

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