Parents often report that their kids lose it when they say “no”. There are a couple of responses that I have to that.
1) I suggest offering (usually 2) choices that are ok with you. You don’t necessarily need to say “no soda!” but instead you can say “Would you like milk or water?” Try to offer of as many choices as you can throughout the day, because sometimes “it’s my turn to pick.”
2) When we say no, it can be helpful to remember to be sad about it together. That can help to diffuse the anger in the situation and to help our kids know that we are on their side, even when it’s time to say “no.” (see Love and Logic for more information about this strategy.)
3) This is a time when we often hear our shark music. It can be helpful to notice when this is happening, so that we can choose how we respond rather than responding just from our fear.
4) This:
