How to Raise an Obedient Child

A priority for all parents is setting basic boundaries and instilling obedience in our children. As parents, we expect our kids to follow our expectations and rules without challenging us. In addition to establishing boundaries between parent and child, we also expect children to follow our rules and expectations because we want what’s best for their health, safety, and well-being. When children behave respectfully, this helps them develop other important skills and character traits, in addition to keeping our kids safe. However, raising an obedient child can seem easier said than done. 

Instilling obedience in our kids can be frustrating. It takes a lot of patience, reminding, and practice. Additionally, we want to make sure our kids do not just obey our rules and expectations because they want to avoid punishment, but because they truly understand the benefits of doing so. The good news is instilling good behavior in kids does not have to be complicated. You can follow these practical, simple, and gentle methods to help you lay the foundation for good behavior with your little one. 

Use a few soft-spoken words

Getting your child to follow your expectations and behave respectfully doesn’t need to require using a lot of words on your part, nagging or threatening. You only need to use a few simple and soft-spoken words. If you find yourself yelling at your kids frequently when they misbehave, now is the time to stop. This isn’t the most effective approach when raising an obedient child. 

You can earn respect from your child and instill obedience in them by using soft-spoken and simple words. It will not come easily at first, but you’ll see the benefits as more time goes by. 

Teach them how to obey

Young kids don’t always understand what the word “no” means, and it isn’t enough that we say things like, “No, you can’t pick that up,” or, “No, you can’t touch that.” Teach little ones how to obey by showing them how to obey. 

For instance, if you want children to stop playing with dirt, you need to physically remove their hands from the dirt and then tell them. “No.” If your child is a little older and can understand logic, you can explain why he or she isn’t allowed to do certain actions. 

Do not keep repeating yourself

It’s not effective obedience training when you find yourself constantly repeating your instructions. Remember that “following up” is different from repetition. Once you’ve given your child an instruction and have ensured that he or she is clear about what’s expected, do not keep repeating yourself anymore. If your child becomes accustomed to hearing repetitive instructions, it will only give the impression that it’s okay not to do what you’ve asked after the first time.

Offer alternatives

One of the reasons obedience is instilled in children is to keep them out of danger or trouble. However, this concept may be difficult for young children to comprehend. They don’t always understand why we want them to go to bed at a reasonable hour or why it’s important that they don’t eat sweets before dinner time. 

Instead of focusing on the things that they can’t do, it may be helpful to suggest the things children can do. For example, if your child isn’t allowed to munch on sweets before mealtime, you can suggest a better option. Tell your child that after he or she finishes dinner to your satisfaction, he or she can enjoy a scoop or two of ice cream for dessert afterward. This will help ensure that your child adheres to your rules with fewer complaints or resistance. 

Be consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to effective obedience training. When you establish rules and set expectations in your home, be sure to implement them consistently. Your training will be useless if you say “no” to something, only to change your expectations later.

For example, when you say “no” to having junk food for an afternoon snack, be sure not to give in no matter how much your child may beg. Stick with your rules to help your child understand that you mean them. 

Set an example

The number one place your child will learn anything is from observing your actions. You have the power to instill discipline and good behavior in children by setting an example with your own behavior. Start with yourself., Be mindful of your own words and actions. Be the adult you want your child to be and obedience will follow. 

Raising an obedient child may seem challenging but it doesn’t have to be. Through consistent training and smart strategies, you can build the habit of obedience in your little one. 

Visit Young Scholars Academy for more helpful parenting tips and resources.