the old definition
merriam-webster simply defines a corner as "the point where converging lines, edges, or sides meet". but did you know that there are many more ways to define a corner?
it's also known as a "private, secret, or remote place," or even "a point at which significant change occurs" (like used in the phrase turn the corner).
using corners for punishment
but for a kid, corners can mean something entirely different. while some kids don't see them as anything but a place for the houseplant to sit or where spider webs collect, others may actually fear it.
corners have historically been used for kids to stand in to "discipline" them after "bad" behavior. but there is a big difference between disciplining and punishing a kid.
discipline vs. punishment
while both discipline and punishment aim to correct bad behavior, only discipline can effectively teach a kid the important life and social skills that lead to better behavior.
chart: discipline vs. punishment
the national institute of health (NIH) encourages parents to foster healthy relationships with their kids through positive discipline (i.e., positive parenting).
some examples of positive discipline include:
- trying to understand what led to misbehavior
- listening to and validating your kid's feelings
- using "time-ins" to calm down before talking
- praising your kid when they behave well
the NIH continues, "strong emotional bonds help children learn how to manage their own feelings and behaviors and develop self-confidence." this in turn helps develop strong coping skills.
calm is the new corner
let's redefine what a corner means today.
parents can't change their past and the way their parents and/or teachers "disciplined" them, but they can help their own kids by making the corner a better, more peaceful place to be.
graphic: quote
instead of sending your kids to the corner to "reflect on what they did wrong," why not use the corner as safe place to:
- calm down from experiencing difficult feelings
- talk about concerns, worries, goals, and ideas
- read books that discuss all kinds of emotions
- brainstorm solutions to behavior problems
- foster reconciliation and forgiveness
the new definition
the corner is now a place where kids go to feel good. really good.
let our little hammock™ help your kids connect and grow into healthy adults who continue to make this world a better place for generations to come.
visit little wanderlust to see 100+ modern boho-inspired color, trim, and hammock hardware kit combinations to create the corner of your kids' dreams!