Watching our Words

What seems reasonable to us may be wrong for kids.

Tired old phrases often come out of our mouths when we talk to kids, especially in times of frustration.  Do you find this happening to you? When we’re exasperated, our minds reach for the first thing that comes to the surface.  Often it’s the exact words we hated hearing as a kid ourselves.

What to Say Instead of “Sorry”

A guarantee - "I won't push you again" - is more meaningful than "sorry."

Kids love the word “sorry.” Just say “sorry” after you push someone and the adults are appeased. It’s magic. One short word and you’re off the hook.

We expect kids to say “sorry” because we want kids to patch things up, to care about others, to develop empathy and awareness and to feel remorseful.