How can you avoid feeling pressed to give your child permission when you’re not sure how you want to respond?
To take a think-it-through breather, try saying to your child, “If you need an answer now, I’d have to say, 'No.' But if you can wait until this time tomorrow, I will give you an answer then.”
Your child learns to wait for your guidance, gains hope of an affirmative response that next day, and learns real patience. You have time to check in with yourself to see how you really feel about the request. Do be sure to initiate that “next day” conversation. Wait till you see how some of those next-day responses hold surprises for each of you!
Yes, this “taking time” strategy gives you a win-win for the two of you!
Copyright © 2015 Babs Bell Hajdusiewicz
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Babs Bell Hadjusiewicz
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