How to Say Yes to Your Children More Often

Your children make so many requests of you throughout the course of the day that answering "no" can become an automatic response. However, if you really think through your child's requests, you might be surprised at how many of them can be answered with a "yes".

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Think about why you're inclined to say "no". A good test is to ask yourself these questions:
   
   ----If I say "yes," will my child be in danger?
   ----If I say "yes," will my child be infringing on other people's rights?
   
   For example, if you answer "no" to your daughter's request to wear her Batman costume to the grocery store, you are most likely just concerned about what other people will think of you and/or her. What's likely to happen if you do let your child wear her costume? She will have fun, and will make people smile. It's a cliche, but it's true: they're only young once.

2. Consider the ramifications of saying "yes". If your child asks to stay up longer, and it is not a school night, there's probably no harm in letting her stay up for another half hour or so.

3. Remember that kids are messy. They will want to paint pictures, help you cook, and play in the mud. Whenever possible, try to refrain from saying "no" just because you don't want to clean up a mess (although your child should help you clean up too). Again, they're only young once.

Tips & Warnings

• Another plus in saying "yes" more often is that it decreases the number of "battles" that you engage in each day.
• If you decide to say "yes", it should be with your initial response. If you have answered "no", don't give in if your child complains repeatedly in an attempt to get her way.
• Of course, there will be times when you just don't have it in you to say yes. The idea is to say "yes" more often!

Resources

• For Information on Great Programs for Kids in Avon, CT., click here
• Fun Reading for Parents

[Susanh]

on 11/1/2008 Amen! This is so true about our children. :)

[Christine25]

on 10/29/2008 I will remember your advice from now on, this is very wise advice!

[kllmomof2]

on 10/29/2008 This really makes ya think. Sometimes "No" isn't necessary. I'm going to try to be a little more relaxed. So my little girl wears her Halloween costume on Thanksgiving, there's no harm, You're right!

[sunshine11219]

on 10/24/2008 good tips

[Kilogramm]

on 10/22/2008 My daughter makes it almost impossible for me to tell her no, thanks for this great how to!