What are some ways to discipline my child without "spanking"?

When I was a child, my mother and grandmother used to tell me that children are like blank slates. You need to be careful what you choose to write on that slate. It never made any sense to me back then. Today, I know what they wanted to convey through those conversations. In today's era, when we talk about disciplining a child it sounds like some sort of punishment or being strict towards the child. In some instances, being strict is not an issue particularly when it is the only resort that we are left with but it must not be done every time. Some effective ways to discipline children are as follows: • Being their best friends - I strongly believe that befriending your child appropriately can help you instill discipline in them. Children who grow under strict surveillance suffer mental health concerns such as PTSD, social anxiety, phobias and find it difficult to talk about it with their parents. •Setting Healthy Boundaries - To maintain a child-parents relationship, a healthy boundary is extremely crucial. If you're treating them as a friend, make sure that they do not abuse that privilege and ask for something that is beyond your capacity. For instance, a child using demanding electronic gadgets, using your credit cards, and splurging money like water is not healthy. Rather, make a list of things your child wants, and every time they accomplish something no matter how big or small it may be, reward them with one thing from that wishlist. This would make them understand the true value of money and that reward is earned through hard work. Also, it would encourage them to perform even better. •Communicate, also be a good listener - Some of the effective ways to instill discipline in a child is through communicating kindly with them. Children are masters at copying actions, tones, languages used. They are capable of doing all that you do better than you. The way you treat them, they will treat you and others the same way. When they are nurtured with love, empathy, respect - they give back the same to society. Hence, talk to them lovingly and be a great listener. Open communication without any hesitation and hear them out for real. Understanding what is going on in their mind. After they are done talking, if there's some correction needed or any point you disagree with - explain it to them politely. Never impose your opinions on them instead, accept their viewpoint. Talk to them in such a manner that they feel comfortable coming to you next time if they want to share any problems. Never forget that the way you treat your children is the way you teach them discipline. Wishing you the best! ❤ Love, -Angel