When the word "discipline" is heard, it usually takes us to a negative or unpleasant feeling. It is thought that "being disciplined" or "having discipline" implies restriction, renouncing certain joys or amusements. Undoubtedly, it has created a bad reputation and, more than a tool, it is seen as a heavy burden that attracts discomfort.
Not for nothing, if we look it up the Merriam-Webster dictionary, we will notice that the word has different meanings that could confirm the fore mentioned.
On the other hand, it has been taught that if you want to carry out some task, achieve some goal or objective, it is essential to have discipline, gather the energies, concentrate them, systematize them and focus them. It seems contradictory: achieving some goal provides satisfaction, having discipline, not so much. What to do?
There are specialists (psychiatrists, psychologists, pedagogues) who have dedicated their careers to changing the negative paradigm and even breaking it, with encouraging and innovative proposals. Can you have a positive idea of discipline? The answer is “yes”. Not only can children adopt it, it can also be quite useful for adults, and above all it can help us to be in tune with our children.
At the beginning of the 20th century, studies emerged concerning this change of paradigm: Positive Discipline. Based on the work of the Austrian psychiatrist Alfred Adler, he argues fundamentally that human being behavior is based on their desire to improve their life situation. In addition, all human beings are equal, deserving of dignity and respect. Values the sense of belonging and the ability to contribute to the welfare of the group. That is, there is a sense of community in those theses.
During the last century, several scholars continued with the deepening and dissemination of such theses. The creation of manuals, books and workshops have been of great help, not only for the training of children, but also for parents and teachers. Thus, Positive Discipline seeks to encourage children to develop their reflective thinking, responsibility, cooperation and the promotion of a sense of community, through connection, rather than punitive correction.
As parents and teachers, the existence of this type of proposal is very encouraging, with a view to the integral formation of children, in a framework of respect and dignity.
At Colegio Ameyali, we are clear about this series of principles, since our primary mission, is to promote the harmonious development of children through comprehensive educational services, in a warm, inclusive and personal environment.
Come to us and live the Ameyali experience!