Parenting Pointers: Positive Parenting

Instead of always saying no to your kids, say yes as often as is feasible. Instead of telling them not to do something (or along with telling them not to) tell them what they should do instead - and why. Even preschoolers are old enough to start learning to justify and evaluate actions. "Walk instead of run so you don't hurt somebody," is an easy way to do this. And don't stop your kids from being kids just because it annoys you. If those loud musical instruments or shrieks drive you nuts, but nobody's actually being hurt, turn up the radio and tune them out. Save your "no" for when it's really important.