''Discipline'' the child when parents are there ?

[kidlove]

you werent "firm" you were a good parent. Any parent who doesn't discipline when the child is acting out and in clear need of discipline is not being a "good parent" IMO. Some parents for some reason feel that discipline has it's own time and place, and others just don't discipline at all. I am a firm believer of firm discipline and "nipping it in the bud" quickly. I have had MANY children I care for behave one way with me and another when the parent comes through the door. Some of them are down right brats and know that when Mom or Dad comes I am no longer the "boss" and they act out, knowing full well that Mom or Dad will do nothing! and others do the "act out" for attention of that parent they missed all day and are now trying to get all the attention from the whole day in one minutes time. Either way...the behavior is inappropriate in my book. I generally give the parent/child one chance to work it out on their own, but if the parent allows the child to disrespect them in front of me continually and does nothing, I will intervene on the parents behalf....never addressing to the parent as to tell them how to handle the child, (teaching them to parent is not my job) rather I will continue to do my job of teaching the child the correct behaviors. I will take the child by the hand to face me, or tap the child on the shoulder, make clear eye contact as I do all day when they are with me, and clearly and firmly state what they need to do..." ________, you need stop crying and put your boots on!" I will ussualy address any ill behavior toward parent as.."_____, do not treat Mommy that way, Mommy loves you and missed you all day, tell her you are sorry and do what you are told". Parents usually appreciate the step in to help them out, alot of times they have had a long day and don't want the fight and other times they are a little embarrassed and appreciate the backup. Depending on the parent, I will ask the child if they would like to take a timeout while Mom or Dad waits? some parents dont mind that as well, just depends on the parenting style and the child. I have also had children that completely disrespect the parent and aside from my efforts we get no where, I just dress them up quick and send them out the door kicking Mom, to that I say.....let them beat you up on your own time! Not mine!