When you think about it, your best relationships are based on how you use your words to communicate with others. It does not mean you have to agree or praise the other person all the time, but it does mean how you choose your words when expressing descent with an adult or if you were to redirect your child. This brings me back to the first concept of my website, Know Thyself because when you are fully aware of your own thresholds, you are better able to manage triggers with young children. These triggers come frequently throughout the day, specially during transitions, meal time, nap time and bedtime but by being aware and by being mindful of yourself you can have complete agency of choosing your words wisely . With mindfulness a lot can be accomplished. First of all , it is best to understand the pull and push between autonomy and conformity.
The human brain is designed to push autonomy over conformity. Your child is not “being bad “when they push for their way, the best approach is, I work with you you work with me. You will reap many benefits from this approach. Also make it a practice to pick your battles . You will notice that when you establish an energy field and space with kind and thoughtful words, guidance and redirection will be easier and smooth.
You will notice there will be more cooperation and compliance from your child. Good communication always leads to success. Here are a few examples of how positive words can be used.
- It’s lunchtime and we will be putting our things away in five minutes.
- What would you like to put away first the blocks or the books?
- I will appreciate if you try some beans
- We will be reading only two books before bedtime. You can choose both the books.
- you can go pick out your pajamas you would like to wear for bedtime.
Note, the point here is that if you use positive words, there will be less friction less arguments and less tantrums.
