Positive discipline, proven results

I am delighted that Sonja Larson wrote in to clarify a “middle” ground with regard to John Rossmond, and other readers’ commentary. (Sept. 9 letter, “ A middle ground for discipline.” I concur with Larson’s assessment that we need to treat our children with dignity and respect, while also engendering the qualities and life skills so important for life — responsibility, compassion, honesty, etc. She is absolutely right about Rudolf Dreikurs and his book, “Children the Challenge.” It was the book that I read when I was a new parent almost 40 years ago, and the philosophy that I have used and taught for the past 35. Dreikurs was a student of Alfred Adler’s and it is Adler’s teachings that Dreikurs followed. Readers might be interested to know that the “Positive Discipline” series of books (for different age groups and special needs), written by Dr. Jane Nelsen, also follow Adlers’ and Dreikurs’ theories and philosophy. These books were first published in the 1980s and have been continuously updated and revised, to reflect current changes in our culture.

Penny G. Davis, M.A.

Respectful Relationships Consulting

Marysville