In terms of healthy child development, Behaviour Analysts highlight that in terms of a child’s mental health, how they think of themselves, & also in terms of child behaviour, what we say to children really does matter. Especially when parenting & faced with behaviour challenges, such as when children are not managing anger well, having tantrums, dealing with sibling rivalry, presenting with attention-seeking/connection-seeking behaviours, etc. this leads to quite often parents saying the first thing that comes into their head without much thought of the long & short term impact it can have on the child. Sometimes making just the slightest change to what we are going to say can make all the difference.
Examples From A Behaviour Therapist – Instead Of:
- “Don’t Hit!”, Say, “Gentle Hands“.
- “Why Do You Never Listen!”, Say, “Now You’re Good At Listening, So Listen To Mum/Dad“.
- “You’re So Bold!”, Say, “I Know How Good You Can Be“.
- Etc.
*** Studies From The Field Of Behaviour Analysis Show That It can completely change the situation around to a far more positive one depending on how you decide to address it. ***
It’s your choice whether you choose to make it a negative or positive statement & whichever you choose is the atmosphere that you create so it only makes sense to put a positive spin on the situation where possible.
Child Therapists point out that people are more inclined to be negative so it can take more effort initially to look for the positive spin on situations but over time with practice it comes a lot more naturally & the impact it can have for you & your child is well worth it.
#YourChoice #SmallChanges #GoodAtmosphere #BigDifference
