To respond to your child’s worry:
Instead of telling your child not to worry:
“Don’t worry about Sara, it’s no big deal to get your tonsils out.”
Accept there feelings and say “even though you know”:
“You seem upset about Sara being in the hospital. Even though you know, that getting your tonsils out is a simple surgery, you are still a little worried for her.”
To stop a child from an unsafe behavior:
Instead of warning:
“You better wear your helmet! Do you want to get killed?!”
Say “I am concerned”:
“I am concerned, that you will hurt yourself when you forget the rule about bike helmets.”
To help your child to stick to your rules:
Instead of accusing:
“You are acting selfish! You better share your toys!”
Accept feelings and say “Nevertheless”:
“I see that you are really having a hard time sharing your toys. Nevertheless, the toys in this playroom are to be shared.”
For more simple effective communication techniques, join our How To Talk workshop.
Adina