4.Make suggestions to the parents. If you find that there are certain rules that aren’t working, or if you have suggestions for new rules that you think could help a naughty child learn to behave, then talk with the parents about it. When doing so, be respectful. Don’t tell them, “You’re doing this, and it’s dumb. It’s not working, you should do this.” Instead, if you find a rule isn’t working and want to suggest a new idea, say, “I’ve been working with [insert child’s name] about not breaking this rule, but he seems to be having trouble with it. What would you think about trying out this approach…?”

• You don’t want to make the parent feel as though you are insulting their parenting. Rather, you want to show that you are interested in helping improve, if their is a way to do so, but without treading on their authority.

5.Keep the parents updated. When you are finished with your caregiving duties, you should briefly chat with the parent about how the child behaved, and if any disciplinary action was needed.

• This will help the parents understand what is working and what isn’t, and will also allow you a chance to suggest any ideas you may have.

3.Avoid violence. Just as you should never hit your own children as a means of discipline, you should certainly never use physical violence to discipline children you are taking care of.

• If the parents suggest using violence as a means of discipline, politely explain to them the problem with this type of discipline. Respectfully explain that you will not engage in this type of discipline, and suggest an alternative. If they insist, you should probably consider backing out of the agreement.
• If you are worried for the safety of the child, contact the authorities. Unfortunately, it is legal to hit children in all US states, but the law varies from state to state about what is legal and what isn't. If you are concerned, it is better to contact the authorities than to stand aside and let a child endure abuse.

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