The 123 Magic Discipline Program is a popular parenting strategy that focuses on creating a calm and structured home environment. Developed by Thomas W. Phelan, the program aims to help parents effectively discipline their children without resorting to yelling, arguing, or physical punishment. The program is based on three simple steps that parents can use when their children misbehave. The first step is to stop any unwanted behavior by giving a clear and firm "Stop" or "No" command. This sends a strong message to the child that their behavior is unacceptable and gives them an opportunity to correct themselves.
1-2-3 Magic
1-2-3 Magic is the world’s simplest parenting program. So much parenting advice is complicated and confusing - not 1-2-3 Magic! Dr. Thomas W. Phelan, a clinical psychologist with decades of experience, breaks the complex job of parenting down into 3 simple steps:
Getting your kids to stop doing the things you don’t want them to do (tantrums, whining, etc.) Motivating your kids to start doing the things you want them to do (cleaning up, homework, etc.) Bonding with your kids (the best part!)With these 3 steps, which you can start using in your house right away, 1-2-3 Magic has helped millions of families grow stronger and more connected, with happier parents and, most importantly, happier kids!
Why Does 1-2-3 Magic Work So Well?
The most effective part of 1-2-3 Magic is that it encourages parents to talk less. When your child is throwing a tantrum, your attempts to talk to and reason with them just add to the overwhelming noise in their head! 1-2-3 Magic focuses on calm, non-verbal communication and signalling to help your child regulate their emotions and respond more appropriately to the situation.
By emphasizing the need for parents to stay calm in the face of chaos, help their children develop emotional intelligence, and focus on every parent’s ultimate goal of creating a close, connected family where everyone feels heard and respected, 1-2-3 Magic is the original gentle parenting program.
Offered by
How is it delivered?
3 sessions - speak to provider for further details
Criteria
Speak to provider for further details
Location
Christchurch Primary School
Darnhall Primary
Grange Community Primary School
Lache Primary School
Overhall Primary School
Overleigh St. Mary's CE Primary School
Tarporley CE Primary School
The Acorns Primary and Nursery School
Victoria Road Primary School
Whitley Village Primary School
Wolverham Primary School
Woodfall Primary School
Referral Process/Contact Details
Contact schools directly
What Is 1-2-3 Magic?
1-2-3 Magic is the world’s simplest parenting program. So much parenting advice is complicated and confusing—not 1-2-3 Magic! Dr. Thomas W. Phelan, a clinical psychologist with decades of experience, breaks the complex job of parenting down into 3 simple steps:
- Getting your kids to stop doing the things you don’t want them to do (tantrums, whining, etc.)
- Motivating your kids to start doing the things you want them to do (cleaning up, homework, etc.)
- Bonding with your kids (the best part!)
With these 3 steps, which you can start using in your house right away, 1-2-3 Magic has helped millions of families grow stronger and more connected, with happier parents and, most importantly, happier kids!
Why Does 1-2-3 Magic Work So Well?
The most effective part of 1-2-3 Magic is that it encourages parents to talk less. When your child is throwing a tantrum, your attempts to talk to and reason with them just add to the overwhelming noise in their head! 1-2-3 Magic focuses on calm, non-verbal communication and signaling to help your child regulate their emotions and respond more appropriately to the situation.
By emphasizing the need for parents to stay calm in the face of chaos, help their children develop emotional intelligence, and focus on every parent’s ultimate goal of creating a close, connected family where everyone feels heard and respected, 1-2-3 Magic is the original gentle parenting program.
1-2-3 Magic is also incredibly versatile. It is appropriate to use with kids ages two to twelve, applies to neurotypical kids as well as kids with ADHD, learning disabilities, and other challenges, and is available in Spanish and other languages.
What Do Parents Say About 1-2-3 Magic? 1-2-3 Magic has helped millions of families become happier and more connected. Here are just a few of the things they’ve had to say about how this groundbreaking program has helped them:
“Words can’t begin to describe how much this book, workbook, and program have changed our lives for the better.”
“This book has been revolutionary for our discipline and child raising and has helped us so much.”
“I have been recommending this book to every parent I know. It's so simple and easy to follow. And I am telling you, the results are almost immediate.”
“Best parenting book ever, period. All parents should have this book. It really is simple to follow, easy to execute, and really is magic. My husband and I are shocked at the change (for the better) in our 3 kids’ behavior.”
“Please do not wait to get this book! I have tried everything for my son. His father and I have done everything we know to do to help with his ‘fits,’ which have been happening for over 3 years now. Screaming, crying, physical contact, yelling, throwing, etc. Nothing was helping at all, until his pediatrician recommended 1-2-3 Magic. THIS BOOK OPENED OUR EYES!”
Watch the Video
Whether you have yet to start using 1-2-3 Magic or want a refresher, this video with Dr. Phelan will help to outline exactly what the 1-2-3 Magic program is and how it can help in your home.
In this video Dr. Phelan answers:
- What is 1-2-3 Magic?
- How does it help?
123 magic discipline program
We use cookies to optimize our website. By continuing to use the website, you agree to the use of cookies. Further information about the cookies can be found in our privacy policy. Learn more.
Accept- Sign In
- Create an Account
Have a Question? Need Parenting Advice? ASK DR. PHELAN!
This sends a strong message to the child that their behavior is unacceptable and gives them an opportunity to correct themselves. If the child continues the misbehavior after being given the initial warning, the second step is to explain the consequence. This entails calmly stating what will happen if the child does not cease their behavior.
America’s Simplest Parenting Program™
The 1-2-3 Magic Program continues to offer parents, pediatricians, mental health professionals, grandparents, teachers and even babysitters a simple and gentle-but-firm approach to managing the behavior of 2 to 12-year-olds, whether they are average kids or special-needs children. With over 1.8 million copies sold and translated into over twenty languages,1-2-3 Magic has consistently been the #1 child-discipline book on Amazon.com.
1-2-3 Magic Parenting’s Programs also include the popular 1-2-3 Magic Teen and All About ADHD. Since 1984, Dr. Phelan has spoken to hundreds of thousands of parents and professionals. He continues with a full schedule of parenting seminars today.
For example, a parent might say, "If you don't stop hitting your sister, you will have to sit in timeout." If the child still does not comply with the request to stop the unwanted behavior, the third step is to enforce the consequence. This involves following through with the predetermined consequence, such as a timeout, loss of privileges, or a mild punishment. It is important for parents to stay calm and consistent during this step, avoiding excessive talking or arguing with the child. The 123 Magic Discipline Program emphasizes the use of consistency, simplicity, and a calm approach. By implementing these three steps, parents can effectively set limits, encourage positive behavior, and reduce power struggles within the family. The program also encourages parents to avoid excessive talking or reasoning with the child during a disciplinary situation, as this can often escalate the situation. Overall, the 123 Magic Discipline Program provides parents with a practical and effective approach to discipline. By remaining calm, firm, and consistent, parents can effectively manage their child's behavior and create a harmonious home environment..
Reviews for "Supporting Parents in their Journey with the 123 Magic Discipline Program"
1. Jane - 2 stars - I recently tried the "123 magic discipline program" and I was honestly not impressed. The whole concept of counting to three and punishing your child without explanation just didn't sit well with me. I believe discipline should involve more communication and understanding rather than relying on a simple countdown. Additionally, I found that the program didn't offer much guidance on how to address different behavior issues, leaving me feeling unsure and frustrated.
2. Mark - 1 star - I was highly disappointed with the "123 magic discipline program." I had high hopes for this method, but it fell short in every aspect. The idea of giving your child consequences without any explanation or understanding just seems wrong. Children deserve to know why their behavior is not acceptable and giving them no opportunity for discussion or growth is counterproductive. Moreover, the program lacked any real depth or practical strategies, making it feel like a superficial solution to discipline issues. Overall, I cannot recommend this program.
3. Sarah - 2 stars - The "123 magic discipline program" did not work for me and my family. It seemed like a quick fix rather than providing any real tools to address behavior problems. The concept of counting to three may work for some kids, but my children were not phased by it at all. I also found it frustrating that the program did not address the understanding and communication aspect of discipline. It felt more like a punitive approach rather than a balanced approach to teaching children acceptable behavior.
4. Michael - 1 star - I regret purchasing the "123 magic discipline program" as it turned out to be a waste of time and money. Counting to three and expecting my children to change their behavior without any explanation or understanding is unrealistic and ineffective. I believe discipline should be a learning opportunity rather than a punishment, and this program completely disregards that. I would not recommend this program to any parent looking for a thoughtful and effective discipline approach.
5. Lisa - 2 stars - I was not impressed with the "123 magic discipline program." While the idea of a simple countdown may work for some children, it completely missed the mark for my family. I found it difficult to implement consistently and it did not address the underlying reasons behind the behavior. Discipline should be about teaching and guiding children, not just imposing consequences. I would recommend exploring other discipline methods that focus more on understanding and communication.