It’s easy to tell someone what you DON’T want.
When it comes to our kids,
Whenever we see them engage in behavior we don’t like,
We tell them: “Don’t do that.”
Then we get frustrated if they continue.
Even when we have their best interest in mind,
People don’t like it when something/someone blocks them from what they want to do.
In order to guide your child’s behavior, don’t force them to stop their actions.
We “REDIRECT” them to a behavior that is beneficial.
We tell them what we DO want.
“Don’t make a mess!”
Use instead:
“Eat over your plate.”
Think of your child’s intentions as water rushing through pipes.
When we say “don’t,”
We attempt to “plug” their flow.
This can cause these pipes to burst.
When we redirect,
We allow them to pick a more appropriate channel.