Posts Tagged "validation"

The Perfect Response to “I want…”

The Perfect Response to “I want…”

“Being heard is more than a basic human need. It’s the key to connecting with our inner greatness and unleashing our full potential.”—Sandy Blackard You will often hear me say that what you like and what you love is who you are at any moment. What you want comes from there and determines the right level of challenge for your growth. What you want not only guides you on your...

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“I hate you. You’re mean!”

“I hate you. You’re mean!”

Do you dread hearing, “I hate you. You’re mean!” from your normally sweet child? Here’s what’s behind it and a reply to turn things around. What’s Behind It Kids often say “I hate you. You’re mean!” to parents, grandparents, or other children in a boundary situation when they can’t do or have something they want. Particularly if that...

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“I’m gonna hit him”

“I’m gonna hit him”

My preschooler came out of her room and stomped once. I carried her back to bed. As I turned to leave, she called out: “When we were camping, C wanted to be alone, and I kept at him, and he hurt me. He hit me first. I hit him second. Next time we go camping, I’m going to hurt C.” “Then I’m afraid we can’t go camping with C,” I said gently, hoping she would see the error...

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When your kid runs away from you—and it’s not funny

When your kid runs away from you—and it’s not funny

Guest post reprinted with permission by Tracy Cutchlow of zerotofive.net. Q: One morning this week, we were on a walk and my toddler took off running down the sidewalk.   I was wearing his 3-week-old brother in a baby carrier, which limited my ability to chase him.  I called several times for him (with increasing intensity) to stop and wait for mamma. (Also tried saying “Red:...

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Responding to Accidents & Complaints

Responding to Accidents & Complaints

Coaching begins with listening for greatness. Here are two simple Language of Listening® coaching skills that can turn any challenging moment with a child or teen into a rewarding one. 1. Accidents: Validate the intention Your child’s greatness can be found in their intentions. When a child makes a mistake or accidentally damages or breaks something, recognizing the child’s true...

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