The differences between punishment, permissiveness and discipline

Discipline is often thought of as something we do to a child when they do something that we do not want them to do. In this sense, punishment and discipline can become confused and the opportunity present in discipline is lost or misguided. The root of the word discipline is disciple. Disciple refers to someone who is a student or follower, one who is essentially being taught by someone who is wise. Discipline is the art of teaching with wisdom. One function and role of a parent is to teach. We are always teaching children through example about what it is to be human, whether considered wise or unwise.