How to Win an Argument with a Child
Children want what they want and when parents say “NO”, they argue. Arguing with your child is both frustrating and a waste of time….so we offer 5 tips to avoid arguments to begin with – and still get your child to behave in the way you wish…
By Nicolette Meyer
5 Tips to Avoid Arguments with your Child
- Limit Choices – Let children have a choice to give them a sense of control over their lives and train them in making proper choices, however, when a child has too many choices, it creates confusion and makes them think you are no longer in control. Two choices are plenty and will help to cut down on arguments.
- No promises – to avoid breaking promises, don’t make promises. Instead of telling them that you will stop for ice cream on the way home, tell them you might, but only if everything goes smoothly. That way they know the better behaved they are, the more likely it is they will get to do what they want. A big incentive to try this trick!
- Start early – It’s tempting to do everything for your children. You can do it faster, better, and with fewer mistakes. But if you do everything for your children they’ll end up lazy and irresponsible. Even toddlers can help take out the trash, dry dishes, etc. If they start young they won’t fight you so hard when they are older.
- Keep it simple – Adults think the bigger, faster, and more expensive toy is always better. But to children, they love the box just as much as the gift, if not more. Remember to keep your gifts and your plans simple. Both you and your children will have more fun if you are not stressed and they are not over stimulated.
- Plan – A good parent always has a plan. Children need to know that someone is in control. If it is not you, it will be them. Avoid a struggle for control by having a plan. Just know what you have to do, what you’d like to do, and what can be done later. You and your children will enjoy the control planning ahead gives you.
The concepts are not hard, but they do take effort. Implement these five tips and see what improvements you can make in your home.
Nicolette Meyer is a therapist and life coach and offers a complimentary 45 minute session to new clients. Chat to her, see if you gel with her methods – you have nothing to lose?
Mobile: +27(0)780287898 | Email: info@lifepsyche.co.za
Website: http://www.lifepsyche.co.za
Comments