Learning Through Example

One of our main methods of discipline is the use of the corner. It is used for "time outs" and for when our daughters won't stop crying. It's rather effective, except that the corners in this house, albeit plentiful, are not conducive to wandering and inquisitive fingers.

I know that Miranda watches in avid fascination when her sisters are sent to the corner for misbehaving. However, I didn't realize what association she made with it until yesterday.

I was busy working on getting some Christmas presents finished, and she was getting tired (it was close to bedtime). She fell down a few times. Did I mention she gets klutzy when she's tired? Well, she started crying and when I turned around to get her, she was standing in the corner, her face against the wall, crying her little heart out!

I told her she didn't have to stand in the corner,and scooped her up and gave her a big hug.

Figuring that she is now at the point where she understands you cry in the corner, this morning when she bit me (watch out Nursery!), I stood her in the corner and said, "No biting!" She actually stayed there for about 10 seconds, which I figure is pretty good for a 13-month-old! Now, if we can just teach her to not bite...

Megan shows where she stands in corner.

Now she demonstrates the correct position of facing the wall.

Miranda standing in the corner.

Checking to make sure she's got the right technique.