Offer an Alternative
Most children do not like to be told no. If your child wants to play with something that is
dangerous or inappropriate, explain to him/her your reasons for not allowing this. Offer
another thing with which the child can safely play.
Put Temptations Away
Put things with which you wouldn't like your child to play away. Children are not always
satisfied with our saying "Do not touch that".
Redirect Your Child's Attention
If you notice any signs of trouble, try to draw your child's attention to something else.
Comfort your child, invite him/her to talk about, rather than act out, upset feelings.
Do Not Overuse the Word "no"
Saying no to your child is not always needed. Letting children exercise their decisions
over small things, builds their self-confidence.
Set Clear Limits
You can start with only a few rules. The more rules you have, the harder it would be for your child to remember them. A good start is to establish routines for bedtime, meals, chores.
Routines help children feel safe. Give kids a chance to speak their minds.
Listen to their thoughts and feelings. Even a child of five or six can talk to
you and help you set fair limits. When children feel involved in making rules, they are more prone to
obey them.
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