Drawing Comfort Tip #4 - Say What You Want
It's surprisingly easy to spend the day saying:
"Don't run."
"Don't shout."
"Don't slam the door."
The problem is our brains often focus on the action itself rather than the word "don't."
Instead, try telling your child what you would like them to do.
Why it works
Positive instructions are clearer and easier for children to follow.
Rather than leaving them to work out the opposite behaviour, you're giving them a simple direction.
How to use it
Instead of saying:
❌ "Don't run."
Try:
✔️ "Please use walking feet."
Instead of:
❌ "Don't shout."
Try:
✔️ "Use your calm voice."
Instead of:
❌ "Don't throw your toys."
Try:
✔️ "Place your toys on the floor."
Give it a try
Choose just one phrase this week and swap it for a positive instruction.
You might be surprised how quickly your child begins to respond.
Remember...
Children often respond best when they know exactly what success looks like.
