How to Talk so Little Kids Will Listen: A Survival Guide to Life with Children Ages 2-7 (The How To Talk Series)

by Joanna Faber

We all want our kids to be good citizens. We’d like to encourage their efforts to help others. But we need to beware the temptation to judge their character. Stick with description! Instead of, “You’re a good girl.” You can say, “You carried those grocery bags all the way to the kitchen. That was a big help!” Instead of, “You’re the best big brother!” You can say, “The baby loves it when you make those funny sounds. I see a big smile on her face.” Instead of, “You’re such a thoughtful little girl!” You can say, “You helped Johnny zip up his coat. Now he’ll be nice and warm when he goes outside.” Instead of, “Good boy. I knew you could be nice to the kitty if you tried.” You can say, “I hear Sparky purring. She likes that gentle petting.”

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