I’m a parenting pro and I use four steps when my kids start complaining, they work every time
IT CAN sometimes feel like kids always have something to complain about.
But dealing with your little darling’s complaints is often harder than it seems.
Luckily, these parenting pros shared their simple four step trick to help stressed parents respond so everyone wins.
Doctors Jenna Elgin and Shanna Alvarez shared the tips on Instagram.
First they say to never take it personally.
“When we are working hard to take care of our kids well, hearing them complain can easily trigger our own big feelings,” The parenting experts explained.
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“Reminding ourselves that their complaining isn’t a reflection of our parenting can help us remain calm.”
Next, remember that kids think about things differently than adults.
“Avoid trying to convince your child why they’re going to have sooooo much fun! Or why they shouldn’t be upset.
The third step is to let them know you understand why they’re complaining.
If it’s because they want something else for dinner say ‘you wish you could have something different.’
“This helps them feel seen and heard,” the parenting experts explained.
Finally, try to highlight the things they do have control over, redirecting their attention.
“This isn’t meant to make them suppress their negative emotions. Rather, it’s helping them gain a sense of control, which kids crave.”
You could give them options for what to have for dinner, or choices of which park to go to.
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Other parents loved the simple steps: “I love finding their underlying wish, so good to validate that!”
Another said: “I will try this in the morning!”