I’ve read a survey that said a child hears around 400 times NO a day.” Saying “No” to your child seems easy for discipline, but it doesn’t always work well. If you say “No” too much, your child might not take it seriously when it’s important. It doesn’t mean we can’t say it, but it’s better to use it for emergency or dangerous situations or use it many times. Instead, try using short, clear sentences to explain why they shouldn’t do something.
Here are 5 better ways to help your child listen without always saying “no”:
🔅Explain what they should do instead.
🔅Understand and acknowledge your child’s feelings.
🔅Give them choices.
🔅Encourage them to work together with you. (Ask them for help)
🔅Tell them your reasons.
- I see you’re excited to play. I’m doing laundry right now, but in 20 minutes, I’ll be ready to play with you.
- Thank you for asking about the park. I know it’s a fun place. Today, we’re staying home, but tomorrow we can go to the park.
- I know you feel sad and you love chocolate. You’ve had some already today, and we can have more tomorrow.
- I don’t like you climbing on me, I’m not comfortable with it, you can climb on the play couch instead.
- Please keep your hands to yourself. Your sister doesn’t like it when you touch her back.
- I see you’re interested in Helen’s dog. Dogs don’t like their tails touched, but you can gently pet its head or back with two fingers.
