Change how you speak to your child:
| INSTEAD OF: | TRY SAYING: |
| “Stop crying, you’re fine.” | “I can see that your sad. It’s ok to cry.” |
| “Don’t hit! That’s not kind!” | “I won’t let you hit me. It hurts when you hit.” |
| “I told you to clean up! You never listen!” | “It looks like there’s still toys on the floor.” |
| “Why can’t you just sit still?” | “Let’s take some deep breaths to relax.” |
| “If you don’t put your shoes on, we aren’t going outside.” | “When you get your shoes on, then we can go outside.” |
Change how you talk to your child. Replace harsh phrases like “Stop crying” or “You never listen” with kind, understanding words. Say things like, “It’s okay to cry” or “Let’s take deep breaths.” This approach helps them feel heard, respected, and supported, fostering better communication and emotional growth.
