For all the things you say to your child day in and day out, what’s really most important? As far as statements that mean the most in the long run in terms of strengthening your relationship with your child and helping them build confidence and resilience, the answer may be simpler than you think. In reality, the words your child needs to hear from you are probably statements you’re making every day. Here’s a list of the top three things that every child needs to hear as well as some quick tips to help you make it happen.
2. THANK YOU Showing gratitude is a great way to help your child feel good about their contributions and accomplishments. It also increases the likelihood that your child will follow through again in the future. So, when those shoes finally get picked up and moved to their appropriate resting place or the homework gets done, offer a simple and genuine thank you so your child knows you recognize their effort. Keep these things in mind to make this work for you and your kids:
3. NO Your child may pitch a fit when you say no, but it is a word they need to hear in order to feel safe, loved, and important. When parents are overly permissive, kids don’t feel cared for or valued. I hear this first-hand from teens who complain about curfews while admitting that they understand when they have one and feel bad for peers whose parents don’t seem to care enough to set them. So, when your child is giving you a run for your money just because you won’t; buy, get, or allow something, remember that you are actually giving your child exactly what he or she needs. Here are a few tips so you can say no like a champ:
JOIN Dr. Stephanie for Facebook LIVE on Monday 1/16 @ 9:00am CLICK the link. LIKE the page. Get parenting tips that work in the real world!
4 Comments
Stephanie O'Leary
1/17/2017 04:43:57 am
"No" can be a tough one, especially when you know there will be pushback! It does send the message that you are serious though.
Reply
1/17/2017 11:26:03 am
This was a great read! Sometimes I worry I don't say: "I love you" enough.
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
Stephanie O'Leary, Psy.D.
Sharing practical strategies that help parents rediscover joy in their children (even when someone's crying, the phone is ringing, and it smells like the house may be burning down) Archives
October 2017
Categories |