It is never easy to be a parent, but it is especially difficult when you are dealing with a child who is struggling. There are so many things that you want to say to your child in order to help them, but sometimes the wrong words can do more harm than good. Here are some things that parents should avoid saying to their children:
1. “I told you so.”
When your child makes a mistake, it is important to resist the urge to say “I told you so.” This phrase will only make your child feel worse and will not help them learn from their mistake. Instead, try saying something like “I know you’re feeling upset right now, but I’m here for you.”
2. “You’re just like your father/mother.”
Comparing your child to another family member – whether it be positive or negative – can be hurtful and confusing for them. It’s important to remember that each person is unique and should be treated as such.
3. “What were you thinking?”
Asking your child this question after they’ve done something wrong implies that they weren’t thinking at all – which isn’t true! Instead of putting the blame on them, try asking what made them.
Get It Out of Your System Sometimes kids struggle with mysterious compulsions
Get It Out of Your System
Sometimes kids struggle with mysterious compulsions. They might feel like they need to keep touching a certain object, or they might have to keep moving their bodies in a certain way. If your child is dealing with these kinds of issues, you might be wondering what you can do to help.
One thing that you shouldn’t do is tell your child to “just get it out of their system.” This kind of advice ignores the fact that there’s probably a reason why your child is feeling the need to engage in these behaviors in the first place. It also puts unnecessary pressure on your child, who may feel like they’re somehow failing if they can’t just stop what they’re doing.
Instead of telling your child to “just get it over with,” talk to them about why they might be feeling the need to engage in these behaviors. Help them brainstorm some alternative activities that could help them cope with whatever underlying issue is causing their compulsion. And most importantly, provide lots of love and support – letting your child know that you’re there for them no matter what.
Stop Being Shy
10 Ways to Help Your Child Overcome Shyness
Are you the parent of a shy child? If so, you’re not alone. Many parents worry about their child’s shyness and wonder what they can do to help their child overcome it.
Here are 10 tips for helping your shy child:
1. Don’t label your child as shy. Labeling your child as shy can make them believe that there’s something wrong with them and that they need to change. Instead, focus on your child’s strengths and praise them for being brave when they step out of their comfort zone.
2. Encourage social activities and opportunities. Help your child get involved in activities where they’ll have the opportunity to interact with other kids their age. This could include joining a sports team, taking dance classes, or participating in a drama club. The more social opportunities your child has, the easier it will be for them to overcome their shyness.
Go to Your Room
10 Things Parents Should Never Say to Their Kids
It’s pretty common for parents to say things to their kids that they later regret. In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to lash out and say something that you don’t really mean. And, unfortunately, those words can sometimes do more harm than good.
Here are 10 things that parents should never say to their kids:
1. “Go to your room!”
This is a classic phrase that is often used in anger. When you tell your child to go to their room, you are essentially giving them a punishment. This can make your child feel like they are being isolated and can lead to behavioral problems down the road. Instead of telling your child to go to their room, try saying something like “let’s take a break” or “I need some time.”
2. “You’re such a disappointment.”
Ouch. Words hurt and this is one phrase that will definitely stick with your child long after you’ve said it. Telling your child that they’re a disappointment will only make them feel worse about themselves and could lead to low self-esteem issues later on in life. If you’re disappointed in your child’s behavior, try expressing it in a more positive way such as “I know you can do better than this.”