Discipline
The seven-year old is a perfectionist. She is critical of herself and ashamed when she makes a mistake or gets in trouble. Though seven will have occasional episodes of defiance and can cycle between good and terrible behavior, punishment is rarely needed. Usually, a reminder and second chance are sufficient.
The keys to discipline with the seven-year old are planning and his natural desire to not get in trouble. He is better able to listen to reasoning and understand why an instruction is give or cooperative behavior is needed. When parents and teachers post a simple list of good behavior expectations, seven will try to conform his behavior to them. When consequences are given, adults should always follow up with a discussion of how the child can plan for better behavior next time.
Of special consideration in discipline with the seven-year old is the child's obsession with finishing things. A perfect strategy for your seven-year old is the 10-Minute Warning. Give her ten minutes to finish what she is doing (watching a TV program, playing a game) before she must comply with a new instruction. This gives her time to plan and execute her transition to a new task.
Next > The Seven-Year Old - Skills to Begin Second Grade
Child Development - The Seven-Year Old
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At School
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