Getting children to follow simple routines can be difficult sometimes. What many parents do is nag children for little things: to brush their teeth, switch off the TV, or finish homework. Many times, these repeated instructions turn into arguments.
Why Words Matter in Parenting
Parenting coach Parikshit Jobanputra suggests that the way parents communicate these everyday expectations can make a big difference. According to him, instead of giving children commands, parents should use positive phrases that make children feel involved, motivated and understood. Here are some of the magic words the parenting coach recommends:
Instead of Saying: “Go Brush Your Teeth”
Try saying: “It’s time to send all the germs out of your mouth.” When children receive instructions, it feels like a chore to them. On the other hand, when tasks are communicated like a “little mission,” children feel willing to participate.
Instead of Saying: “Turn Off the TV”
Try saying: “Come, let’s have some fun together and play something exciting.” Rather than making screen time end feel like a punishment, parents can shift the focus towards what comes next. First find a healthy substitute to indulge them, then connect with them.
Instead of Saying: “Do Your Homework”
Try saying: “It’s time to make your brain stronger. Let’s do homework.” Making homework feel like a mandatory task can make children think of it as a boring responsibility. On the other hand, talking about homework as an activity that can boost their abilities, children will feel they are willing to work.
Instead of Saying: “Playtime Is Over”
Try saying: “Let’s give our body some rest so we can play even more tomorrow.” Children often find it difficult to stop an activity they enjoy. This wording helps them understand that breaks are also important.
Instead of Saying: “Clean Up Your Toys”
Try saying: “Let’s put our toys back in their place so they are ready for us when we want to play again.” When children are told to stop playing, they resist. It is because they feel they’ll not get to play again. On the other hand, when children are told in a way to “pause” playing, they understand that they’ll get to play again.
Instead of Saying: “It’s Bedtime”
Try saying: “Let’s relax and enter our dream world.” To make bedtime a comforting transition, parents can use phrases that indicate that sleep can also be an exciting time. If parents say “Let’s relax and enter our dream world” children may look forward to sleeping.
Instead of Saying: “Leave Your Phone”
Try saying: “Let’s come back to the real world, play together, and make some special memories.” This helps children, and even adults, shift their attention from screens towards meaningful interactions.
