Discipline is not something that we do to children, but something we develop within them. This is the core belief behind Conscious Discipline.
The traditional model of discipline is founded on rules that are upheld through reward and punishment. The goal is to obtain obedience. Those who are compliant are rewarded. Those who aren’t compliant are punished and removed if disobedience persists. Fear is the tool used to empower the system as teachers attempt to control children. This traditional system is built on three major premises:
1. It is possible to control others through environmental manipulations.
2. Rules govern behavior.
3. Conflict is a disruption to the learning process.
Conscious discipline is based on a Brain State Model that empowers us to shift from educational systems grounded in controlling others to cultures of learning based on safety, connection and problem solving. The Brain State Model utilizes a neurodevelopmental model to help us focus our attention on internal states first and behavior second. This leads to self-regulation and strong problem solving abilities.
Conscious Discipline is built on three completely different premises than a traditional model:
- Controlling and changing ourselves is possible and has a profound impact on others.
- Connectedness governs behavior.
- Conflict is an opportunity to teach.
To learn more about Conscious Discipline basics, check out these resources: