What exactly are “logical” consequences? For that matter what are “natural” consequences? And what’s the difference? Before we begin to define and differentiate these terms, we first need to clarify the purpose of consequences.

The aim of consequences is of course to encourage a change in our child’s undesirable behavior. Effective consequences do not punish but rather, teach. The word punishment connotes a punitive or hurtful interaction between parent and child. This approach typically creates anger and resentment in the child. Certainly not conducive to gaining cooperation. Effective consequences invite cooperation and allows the child to make appropriate choices.

Natural Consequences are the direct result of the child’s actions. Typically, nothing is required on the part of the parent. For example, a toddler during play activity may ignore the warning signs of needing to use the bathroom until it’s too late, and consequently has an accident. From this experience, the child learns to pay closer attention to his or her bodily signs.

Since some natural consequences might be detrimental to the child or an immediate consequence will not likely result due to the child’s behavior, we must then create an “artificial” or logical consequence.

Logical Consequences are imposed by someone other than the child, i.e., parents, teachers, or peers. They are “logical” in that they are designed to have a reasonable connection between the misdeed and the consequence. The more the consequence relates to the child’s behavior, the more likely the child is able to accept and learn from it. The child is therefore more willing to adjust their behavior.

When targeting a pattern of undesirable behavior, we present the child with choices. Based on the child’s choice (behavior) a consequence may or may not be imposed by the parent. But it remains the child’s choice. Remember, at this point the child now owns the problem, and must be allowed to make the choice, even if its the wrong one. The parent then follows through on the consequence if necessary.

Like “natural” consequences, “logical” consequences do not punish nor do they feel personal in nature. As any fact of life, they are more readily accepted by children.