Parenting Thought

Six things you can do when your child says no

1. Insist they do what you need them to do
2. Do not punish or criticize them for saying the word, no
3. Calmly tell them its OK to think for themselves, but they will still need to do what you tell them to do – encourages them to develop a mind of their own and have the perseverance to get what they need.
4. Stand your ground and insist on your way when you need to – but don’t put them down for having a mind of their own and showing determination.
5. Remind yourself that when your child says no, it is a sign that he or she knows what they need and are beginning to think for themselves.
6. Remind yourself that when your child says no, he or she is practicing persistence. We  want them to be persistent and able to persevere, don’t we? For more about persistence, see “Grit.”

 (See “The Benefits of Art, Choices, and Discipline: Part I I“ for more about no-saying.)

Autumn’s Picture Books

We have been amazed at how much good parenting information is in children’s picture books – books that we hope you are reading everyday to the children in your lives – your own, your class, those you take care of.  For each book, we are noting there is something in it to remind you of how to be the parent you want to be.

• BECAUSE I’M YOUR DAD by Amet Zappa

A reminder that Dad’s are important with many ideas about how to play with and just be with your child

• LET’S GO, HUGO! by Angela Dominguez

A reminder that fear can be overcome and that being a trusted friend is helpful when your child is afraid

• NURSE CLEMENTINE by Simon James

A reminder that holiday gifts should show that you know your child really well and that if what your child wants is safe and affordable, it is a good gift – no matter how small or how unusual

• SUKI & MIRABELLA by Carmela and Steven D’Amico

A reminder of the dangers of overindulgence and out-of-control competition.

Read All About It:

“Grit”

The Benefits of Art, Choices, and Discipline: Part II

SELF-ESTEEM A FAMILY AFFAIR, Jean Illsley Clarke

GROWING UP AGAIN: PARENTING OURSELVES, PARENTING OUR CHILDREN, Jean Illsley Clarke and Connie Dawson

Surf the Internet:

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