Positive Parenting:”Should you tell your child ‘NO!’…?”

Using the word “No.” Good or Bad?

I recently interviewed Dawnn Whittaker, Baby Contentment and Sleep Consultant to learn different ways parents can help their children learn to sleep through the night. (Stay tuned for more information on this interview).

Dawnn recently posted a thread on Facebook to find out parent’s thoughts on whether using the word “No” is taboo or whether it receives two thumbs up.

For every NO! there is a YES!

I firmly believe that all children want boundaries…they yearn for it even. I am also a firm believer that when you are showing a child that a behavior etc is inappropriate, that you give them something they CAN do that is constructive. It’s so important to follow up a “No” with a “Yes.” Show them what they can do instead.

On days where it feels like all you are saying “No” to your child, this can be an indicator that your child is just bored. Kids have a deep thirst and hunger to learn.

Mom! I’m BORED!

When children become bored with their environment, toys, etc, they begin to find new ways to learn with what’s around them (often by getting a bit aggressive, breaking toys, coloring on the wall, or other things we would term “misbehaving”).

When you provide your child with plenty of new things to experience and learn, behavior requiring “No’s” will often dissipate.

The 60 Second Method to Saying “NO!”

If your child runs into the street, obviously it’s important to let them know this is totally unacceptable. Instead of merely saying “No!” and reprimanding your child, take 60 Seconds and talk to them about the situation.

Show them the difference between the street and the sidewalk. Let them know where they *can* safely play. Let your child know that playing in the street is unacceptable, and praise them when they play safely on the sidewalk or in the yard.

If your child colors on the wall (first have them help you clean up the mess), then give them paper and crayons so they can color constructively.

Boundaries Set with Love

Boundaries are essential to help your child become well-adjusted and responsible. Boundaries set with love will not just reign your kids, but it will provide an environment where they are free to learn and give them wings to grow into the amazing people they have the potential to become.

To learn more about Dawwn, visit her website at www.CheekyChops.ca or find her on Facebook