7 Ways to Make Your "No" Sound Like "Yes"

Children never like it when they hear "no" over and over.  Well, did you ever think of simply trying to turn your "no" into something that sounds more like yes?

Not only will it create a more positive environment overall and teach children more positive language, but it will also gain you more cooperation since the kids will be hearing more of a "yes" than "no."

Here are 7 ways to get you started:

1. When you want to say, "No yelling in here."  
Say instead: "We use a quiet voice inside."

2. When you want to say, "Don't throw the toys."
Say instead: "Set the toys down gently."

3. When you want to say, "No pushing."
Say instead: "Say excuse me to get by."

4. When you want to say, "Don't grab the toy from your friend."
Say instead: "Ask for a turn when your friend is done."

5. When you want to say, "No running."
Say instead: "Use walking feet."

6. When you want to say, "No, you can't have a cookie now."
Say instead: "You can have a cookie after lunch."

7. When you want to say, "No hitting."
Say instead: "We keep our hands to ourselves."

The point is that anytime you want to say something negative, just think about what it is you want the child to do instead - and just say that!  It's as simple as it sounds.  The struggle becomes when your mouth opens and out comes "no" before you have a chance to find a better way to say it.  The more you practice, the more natural it will become.

Not only will this create a more positive environment, but it will help everyone focus on the desired outcome instead of what you don't want to happen.  Give it a try!  I bet you will be pleased with the results.  

xoxo Jennifer