How to Discipline a Defiant Child

There are a number of children out there who may be considered defiant. This can be because of a certain problem such as ADHD, ADD, an emotional impairment, special needs or it can just because of a lack of structured discipline in the child's environment. Either way, a child can learn a lot and a parent or caregiver can regain some control by disciplining the defiant child in the correct and protective way.

Things You'll Need

  • Toys
  • List of rules
  • Chair

Instructions

    • 1

      Attempt to distract your child from behaviors that you find inappropriate. This does not mean that you should distract him after he performs this behavior, but before. If the child is in a situation where you think he might be tempted, distract him away from these actions. You can do this with toys, engaging in conversation or other things that the child finds enjoyable.

    • 2

      Look at your child sternly when you are disciplining her or telling her "no." Many parents will have their back to their children or will attempt to discipline them from across the room--this will not work. You should be close to your child and looking her in the eyes.

    • 3

      Walk away from any tantrums or other undesirable reactions he may have to the discipline. Many times, if a child is throwing a fit parents will try to sooth him or calm him down, this will only reinforce that particular behavior. As long as the child cannot harm himself, these actions should be ignored during discipline.

    • 4

      Create logical consequences for different behaviors. A child will not connect the discipline that she is receiving with the wrong act she did if she doesn't seem connected at all. Examples of these would be taking away her bike for a day if she leaves it in the yard or taking away television if she didn't turn it off when asked.

    • 5

      Create a "time-out" area in your home. This will normally be a corner where there is nothing to do, other than simply sit on a chair. Warn your child about this "time-out" area and then use it when he is disobeying orders that you are giving him. The key to making this work is consistency. Defiant children will not stay in that chair the first time. You will need to consistently get him and put him back in the chair every time he gets up, until he will stay in the chair for the prescribed amount of time. Many parents give up on this effective method too soon.

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