Learning to Say No/

Times have changed and so has parenting style.  Earlier parents would always be more authoritative and decide on the child’s behalf.  Generally, the children of our times weren’t given much choices.  The parents decided and we had to oblige.

But now parents are trying to be friendlier with their children.  The kids are given choices from the time they are very young.  But one more thing which the kids are learning is refusing to take NO for an answer.  Parents often become indulgent and also too lax with disciplining the kids thinking “They are just kids.”  But if the child learns to manipulate the parents from as young as age of 2 years, later on as he/she starts growing up, taking NO for an answer becomes more and more difficult.

Parenting, as I always say, is never easy.  Maintaining a balance is required.  Where to draw a line should be a decision that parents need to make wisely.  Kids will be exposed to outside world, school, friends, teachers where they would throw tantrums if somebody were to say NO to them.  Loving your child always doesn’t mean to give in to his/her demands and tantrums.

My kids like all the other kids have their meltdowns and demands.  I have always given them an explanation as to why I am saying NO to a certain thing or tantrum.  When they were toddlers I would tell them stories to justify the NO when they would be in a good mood.  Now that they are in an age to understand things I talk to them, have opinions from them, and give my reasons for saying NO.

Kids need to learn to accept the NO.  It will help them in their life ahead.

Happy parenting!