Try to agree, not to argue
If you phrase your requests so that your child can say ‘yes’, it’s less likely that an argument will start. Your child will be more willing to listen if you phrase questions in a way that appeals to your child’s need for control and independence. If you say, ‘Would you like to set the table?’ your child is more likely to cooperate than if you say, ‘Set the table NOW!’
 
Get your child involved
If you need to discipline your child, you could ask your child; ‘What do you think would be a reasonable consequence for hitting your sister?’
 
Explain your point of view
You could say, ‘We need to leave the playground now because I have to go home and make dinner.’ If your child responds by saying, ‘I’m not hungry,’ then you might say, ‘But I am and so is your sister.’
 
Respond to criticism by asking your child a reasonable question
When your child gives out to you for nagging them about cleaning their room, you could respond with ‘How would you like to deal with it?, When would you like to clean your room?’
 
Take time to cool down
If your child is making you angry, take a minute, leave the room and calm down before trying to talk.
 
Let your child win every now and then
Pick your battles wisely and remember that not everything your child does wrong is worth having an argument over. Leaving clothes on the floor of their room when they’re in a hurry is not cause for an out and out battle!
 

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