Sometimes communicating with your child might seem like serious negotiations at the highest level of government. Both of you stand your ground so firmly that there is no solution in sight and confrontation happens as a result.

While every interaction with your child is different, there are preparations you can make that will help diffuse potential arguments before they start and create a more harmonious environment for the entire family.

Try these three tips to get started:

Groundwork and follow-through: Natalie Baginski writes in “The Art of Peaceful Parenting” that parents are constantly tending to the environment and relationship with their children to promote a peaceful home. Part of this involves creating a solid list of ground rules and then – surprise!- sticking to them during times of duress. By premeditating ground rules then communicating them to your child in a consistent manner, there will be far fewer moments of “Because I said so!” or “If I have to tell you one more time!”

Let the Environment Set the Rules: Simone Davies recommends putting up a small sign that both non-readers and readers alike can understand to help lay the ground rules for common confrontations. For example, if your child consistently climbs on a high table, create a small sign that depicts a table with a big red X over it and write “No Climbing”. This way, it’s the sign, not you, that is giving feedback. “I see this sign right here says no climbing!”

Observe your child: A common struggle in the parent-child relationship occurs when your child feels the need to exert his or her independence. This may come in the form of ‘No!’ responses to your questions. Rather than get frustrated with this response, consider the situation in which it is given. Might your child be ready for more autonomy and responsibility? Rather than react to your child’s words, consider the context and message behind them. Here’s Ms. Wood with more on this topic in a short video, “Saying No.”

A little preparation can go a long way, and we hope the tips above provide a few new ideas for open and peaceful communications with your child.

Do you have any tricks that work to prepare an argument-free home environment? Let us know in Chat!

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