Consequences are the second part of your firm limit setting message.

COMPONENTS OF EFFECTIVE CONSEQUENCES

Relatedness – Must be logically related to the behavior. Usually adults apply the same consequence for different misbehaviors.

Duration – Short term, should fit the way kids think. Shorter consequences give them more opportunity to collect data and demonstrate behavior. Just because a little is good a lot is not necessarily better.

Respect – Consequences must be delivered without attacking, insulting or humiliating the child.

Clean Slates – Once the consequence has been applied, resist the urge to keep reminding the child of the past offense. They now have more information and fresh opportunities to learn.