It is such fun when "real parents" share their success stories with Positive Discipline Tools. One of my favorites is
Just last night in another parenting class the Parents Helping Parents Problem-Solving Steps, the role-play was about a three and a half year old having a tantrum. The second role-play demonstrated the power of the hug without words. The child was unable to continue the tantrum. When processing with the person who role-played the child, she said she believed her mom cared about her and she felt safe. The tantrum was diffused.
— Jan Morris, CPDA
Just yesterday I had an almost 3-year-old having a tantrum in the school parking lot because I had cleaned his face. I was fending off his blows when I thought to pick him up and I held him close. He snuggled into my shoulder and melted in my arms.....isn't Positive Discipline wonderful???
— Susan Lehman, CPDA
Holy Cow: It Worked. This morning, the scene in my house was practically identical to the scenario we role-played last night [during parenting class]. My daughter (4.5) woke up early and we had a very nice time together, getting dressed together. Then I woke up little brother (2) and the whole scene changed: They both wanted their breakfast in the "green bowl". We drew straws for it, and John ended up with it and Sara burst into tears. I gave Sara extra brown sugar to soften the blow (perhaps not positive discipline ;-)) that stopped the crying, but she proceeded to yell, "You are an idiot, John, I hate you John, John is a buttass." John is then crying, "Mama, Sara call me Buddyass." I decided to try the option that we tried last night of "speaking less and using body language" (which I was frankly skeptical of, but having acted last night, it came to mind). I removed Sara's dish from the table. She immediately began to scream, "Give it back, I want my food," and, "I am going to spill your coffee." I honestly can't remember if I said anything, but I went and hugged her— a nice long hug and a kiss. She said, "I want my food," but with a smile this time. I gave her back her breakfast, and we all had a peaceful and pleasant breakfast together. Wow!
Christine, Positive Discipline Class Participant