The 5-Second Discipline Fix

Rephrase Your Questions

Instead of: "Would you like to have string beans for dinner?"
Say: "We're having string beans with our pasta for dinner."

Instead of: "I think it's time to try sitting on the potty now. Are you ready?"
Say: "Let's go to the potty. Do you want to read a book about Elmo or Clifford?"

Instead of: "You look tired -- aren't you ready for your nap?"
Say: "It's time for your nap now."

Instead of: "Are you ready for Mommy to leave now?"
Say: "Mommy is leaving now, and you'll have lots of fun with Grandma."

Originally published in the February 2009 issue of Parents magazine.