Getting a Handle on Homeschool Discipline

Some homeschool moms on social media are miserable.  Their kids are out of control, and it's often described as a typical day. 

Well, it wasn't our typical day – and it doesn't have to be yours either. Nothing can derail home education faster than out-of-control kids.

Today, on The Stay-at-Homeschooling Mom Podcast, Mary Ellen and Ginny discuss why this is happening and share the ways to fix it. 

Show Notes:

Out-of-control kids are not unique to homeschooling families.  A trip to the park, the library, or a family restaurant will convince you that poorly behaved children are epidemic.  Many parents have convinced themselves that brattiness is just a normal stage of growing up, like cutting teeth -- it is not.  In countries all over the world, children are obedient, respectful, hardworking, and even sacrificial.

Why have we lost control?  A few ideas:

• Americans are generally pretty well off.  
• In movies and TV, parents, especially dads, are often portrayed as buffoons. 
• Childcare professionals, the so-called experts, give terrible advice.

So, who SHOULD we follow for parenting advice?  

Catholics should follow just three "pages" when it comes to raising their children:  

• Sacred Scripture
• Our Holy Traditions
• The Magisterium or teaching authority of the church.

The 4th Commandment is NOT a suggestion.  

We are required to teach our children to honor and obey us in everything that is not sinful.

The simplest path to well-behaved kids is to establish your authority right from the start.  As soon as they can understand you, probably about 1 ½ years

Rule #1: Clear, easy-to-understand rules.  

• BEFORE we leave our bedroom in the morning, we stow dirty clothes and make our beds.  
• When we get up from the table, we clear our places. 
• We always say please and thank you.  

Rule #2: Don't whine or beg your children to be good.  

• Express your expectations clearly and leave no room for doubt. 
• If they don't listen, give a clear and immediate consequence.  

Rule #3: Do not give delayed consequences.

• "No TV for you tonight is ineffective."  The kid will never remember, nor will you.  
• You don't have to yell or scream – calm and confident works best.  
• You just have to persevere. 

Rule #4: Do not argue with your kids:  

• You will never win!   
• Expect obedience and walk away from an obstinate child.  
• Do not engage. 

Rule #5: A simple, sensible schedule and a check-off list for responsibilities.

Set a regular time and post it on the fridge or a whiteboard:

• Schoolwork
• Chores
• Instrumental practice, or whatever
• Too strict? It's just the opposite.  There's ultimately less stress when children know what is expected of them.

Tune in in two weeks for part 2 of our discipline series.  

Homeschooling Resources

Seton Home Study School

Seton Testing Services