|
Is the 'Supernanny' Parenting Style Good for Your Family?
If you haven't seen the
British inspired 'Supernanny' on ABC then you are missing
out on one of the nation's new favorites in home improvement
shows.
No, this one will not show you how to
create a floral centerpiece or decorate with zebra stripes,
but it IS teaching families to bring order to chaotic
homes by setting the stage for new parenting techniques.
Actually, British Nanny, Jo Frost, who
is the star of the show is doing anything BUT new parenting.
She actually encourages parents to stick to the old
time rules of discipline, consistency and creating boundaries.
Although there is a noticeable absence of any physical
punishment, the firm rules that are put in place work
apparent miracles on unruly children while helping parents
develop confidence in their parenting skills.
If you haven't been among the millions
of viewers now hooked on watching the Supernanny bring
sanity to American homes, then here's a review of some
of her systems:
DISCIPLINE:
One of Frost's (affectionately known
as 'Jo-Jo') main techniques is to create a time-out
area - either a rug, bean bag chair or even a room with
no toys or TV for distraction. To implement the system
parents are coached to warn their defiant offspring
of the punishment beforehand. If a warning doesn't work
then the child is placed on the 'naughty mat'.
Although the time-out has a reasonable
time frame depending on the age of the child, some parents
have been viewed to place a child who flees the mat
back into time-out dozens of times for upwards of an
hour during the breaking in phase. Once the routine
is established the parents, on review, praise the success
of the technique and find that often a warning is all
that is needed.
BEDTIME:
A serious problem with many families,
Frost will start with parents returning the escapee
repeatedly until the youngster remains in bed. For tougher
cases she has the mother or father sit on the floor
next to the child's bed with their head down. This provides
the child with security but removes eye contact or verbal
attention. If the child climbs out of bed they are not
comforted but are put right back.
It is setting these clear boundaries
which help parents and children deal with problem issues
- whether it's eating at the table, back-talking or
fighting with siblings.
ATTENTION:
Frost will create a family schedule
that is sure to include special time set aside for playing
and interacting with the children, as well as helping
parents spend time together. It is by helping parents
view themselves as a parenting team, as well as pointing
out that having children SHOULD be enjoyable, that 'Supernanny'
may be making the most difference.
If you are curious about more of her
techniques or just want to watch families (worse than
your own) clean up house - check her out on ABC, Mondays.
1howto.com
--------------------------------------------------
Please
Share Your Tips with Us
|
