What I meant to say was...
So many times as parents we tell our children what they should do in that antagonistic or sarcastic tone that gets us nowhere. In the heat of the moment, our language can make a bad situation worse. But if we rephrase our statement we can actually build a positive relationship.
Here are a few examples:
Ineffective
Don't bother your sister.
Effective
You are welcome to stay with us as long as you are respecting your sister.
Ineffective
Don't talk to me in that tone of voice.
Effective
I'll listen to you as soon as I know you are with me.
Ineffective
You are not going outside without your coat.
Effective
You may go out as soon as you have your coat on.
Do you have other examples of effective statements? Share them with us. Send Elizabeth an email.
