Asking Questions Rather Than Issuing Commands Leads Kids to Thinking

Do you ever get tired of constantly telling your kids what to do? Does it seem like you have to say the same thing over and over before they finally do it?

It’s easy to get into the habit of telling kids what to do:
  • Brush your teeth.
  • Get your shoes on.
  • Say please.
  • Put your car seat straps on.
  • Eat your breakfast.
When you order your kids around by saying things like “Go wash your hands.” you are doing the thinking. You can help them to start doing more thinking and decision making by asking questions instead of giving commands. “What do you need to do before we eat so that you don’t get sick from germs that might be on your hands?”

Next time you’re about to give your kids a command, see if you can turn it into a question. Look for the difference in how you feel and how your kids react.



photo credit: cafemama via photopin cc

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