Children are people too

Should we reward ‘good’ behaviour and punish the ‘bad’? Should we award children stars on a chart when they do as they are told but send them to a “naughty step” when they disobey?

Parent and child psychologist, Dr Louise Porter thinks not! Although popular and sometimes effective in the short term, Dr Porter explains why a controlling approach to children’s behaviour usually results in more work for parents and long-term problems for children. Dr Porter advocates a guidance approach to raising children that will result in their being more confident, considerate, co-operative, and independent.

About the Author

Dr Louise Porter has 25 years' experience as a child psychologist consulting with children, parents and educators on children’s developmental, emotional and social challenges. She is also a parent and an adjunct senior lecturer in Education at Flinders University where for 13 years she has taught in early childhood, gifted and special education and behaviour management.

She is a sought-after speaker both nationally and internationally on the needs of young children.