ScottCounseling

How to Say “NO” and Survive? Before you begin using the word “no” more often, consider the following helpful hints:

• Use the words “I love you” with your child as many times a day as they ask or want something. This caring phrase does not to be used as a response, but should be used several times per day.

• Turn television time into reading time. The average child in the United States watches over seven hours of television per day. Replace promotional ads with the promotion of literacy.

• Make an effort to listen to your child. Eat at least one family meal together each day. This promotes family time. This promotes listening time. Another idea: Turn family television time into family game time.

• Keep track and, if necessary, reduce some of your child’s activity time. Many children are stressed! Stress often leads to addictions. Addiction leads to a need to have something. That something requires a “yes.” Be mindful of your child’s stress levels. Many children (and parents) today are doing too much. Slow down! Begin saying “NO!” to more activities.

• Keep a list on the refrigerator of items that you buy for your child. Have the child keep a list of all the times they ask you for something beyond the basic needs (food, shelter, clothing). Contrary to popular teen opinions, a cell phone is not a basic need.

Finally, sit down with your child and hold a discussion on this topic. Your child will most likely be a parent someday. Sharing this article with your child, especially your teenager, will help him or her become a better parent someday. When your child sees that you are doing the right thing by saying “no,” the child will learn to become comfortable with this word too.

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