We don’t mean say no to having them, never! We mean say no to them. Often.
A trip to the grocery store is all you need to see different parenting styles. Some are strict, authoritarians. Some are democratic and offer their children choices. Then there are the ones who can’t say no. These moms are typically handling more stress than the others.
We’re not here to attack those moms. We want to help. Research says that adults who have a hard time saying no usually suffer from self-confidence issues. So what can you do if you’re stuck in a rut of appeasing the kids just to avoid meltdowns? Here are some tips:
1. Commit to it. You CAN do this. But you have to stick to it for the sake of your child. If you need to figure out why you aren’t confident, start now. Examine yourself. Talk to your spouse, mom, or a friend.
2. Schedule it. Hate tantrums in public? You know what sets your kids off, so set it up at home and let the tantrum happen there.
3. Think ahead. How your 3 year old acts is a prediction of how they will act when they’re 13. Start giving them skills now so they aren’t defiant or spoiled later.
4. Find other moms! Seek out a mom who is strong at discipline. Ask advice. Watch her. Let her model for you. Don’t feel bad- she’s watching your good points and learning too.
5. Books. The right book is dependent on your parenting style, but start looking for it.
Do you have a hard time saying “no” to your children?
