Just say yes!

Toddlers often learn "no" as one of their first words as this video demonstrates: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_utET7TCMQ

You will get a more positive response from your children if you can turn a "no" into a "yes". You can do this by stating the circumstances under which the request will be granted. Below are some examples of saying both no and yes to a request.

"Can I have a cookie?"

• "No, it’s almost dinner time."


• "Yes, after dinner you can have a cookie."

"Can we get a dog?"

• "No, we’re not getting a dog."


• "Yes, when you move out and have your own house, you can have a dog."

"Can I go over to Sam’s house?"

• "No, you need to get your homework done."


• "Yes, feel free to go to Sam’s house just as soon as your homework is done."

Look for opportunities to say yes rather than no to your child this week!