Switch "No's" to "Yes"

It is easy to find oneself saying, "No!" to nearly everything a toddler and an older child does. But rather than fall into a "no" pattern that makes little sense to your child and creates constant irritation for you, take some time to determine what your essential house rules should be. It may help to write them down and discuss them with other family members so that everyone can help your child understand what rules apply around the house.

*Physical safety issues (staying in the yard) and family routines (bedtimes) need a few basic rules. For instance, "We play in the yard." "We keep the gate closed." "We are going to take a nap now. It's nap time."

* When you state a rule to your child, do your best to state it positively.(Children often don't hear the "don't" part of a rule and instead act on what they did hear, thus doing just what you said not to do!) help a child understand why, even at this age. (It's good practice for later years when your child will ask, "Why?" constantly!) For example, rather than, "Don't touch the cord!" try, "The cord stays in the wall. It can hurt your hand if you touch it.

*Toddlers will test you. This does not mean you need to change the house rules. A child needs to know that you and your rules are a sure thing. A child gains comfort and security in knowing what you expect and what comes next. Rules help a child make sense of his or her world.

Be consistent and keep it simple.

Excerpts from Smart pages: Gospel light