Effective Discipline

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I've found the best method of discipline, which is effective in the moment, and also considers the long-term effects on the child (considering everything we do and say to our children affects the adult they'll become), is to use leverage. Pick something the child loves to do - for example, watching T.V., playing Playstation.... etc. and let them know ahead of time what the result of certain actions will be. BUT - and here's the bit that makes it work - speak to them as if you're on their side (which of course you are. Just let them know it) Something like, "Unfortunately, if you ...... you won't be able to watch...." and then, at the time, "I'm really sorry Sweetheart, but I did say ...... and so now, unfortunately...." BUT - you MUST MEAN IT. Be genuine. This will give the child the feeling you still love them, are still on their side, but there are consequences to their actions, that, unfortunately, as much as you'd LIKE to not have that happen, you can't really change it - it's just the way it is. "And of course, next time, you can do it differently angel."