This skill is easily the most challenging for adults. Since we live in a negative based society, it takes a lot of focus to remove all negative words from your vocabulary.

Now, do not confuse this skill with never disciplining your child. The challenge is to say no without using that word.

An example I use in my seminars involves a 7th grade female who gets invited to a high school event and it goes like this:

Child: "Mom, can I go the the high school dance next weekend?"

Mom: "Yes, when you are in high school."

Instead of the usually answer "NO!", the mom let her child know that she will be able to, once a particular set of requirements are met.

Practice this skill and you will see that your child opens up and asks all kinds of questions.

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Posted in Parenting Tips by Denny Strecker No Comments Yet