Suggestions Here are some protocols I’d suggest regarding disciplining other’s kids:
When it comes to safety (seatbelts, bike helmets, weapon play, traffic vigilance, etc.), your authority as a non-parent is highest. You would expect no less of the parent of any child your kids would visit, ride, or sleep over with. Being authoritarian is acceptable at this level.Behavioral aggression, especially physical, that the kids can’t manage themselves (give them a chance – most can with their friends and that IS the long-term goal) involves the next level of authority. Distract by suggesting other activities unless you feel there must be justice (this should be a last resort since you’ll be wrong 50 percent of the time).Behavioral provocations, not physical, usually do not grant you the right to use your authority. Again, give them a chance to manage it (swearing, rudeness, cruel teasing, etc.), and if they can’t, a brief sit-down with discussion about hurt feelings and invited solutions can assist them in problem-solving.
Of course, most of the time, kids play wonderfully together and you don’t have to raise a finger or voice. But when you do, your kids will watch and learn volumes about your caring for them and their friends.
