Whoever said “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words can’t” clearly hadn’t felt the true impact of certain words on us. It’s worse when you say it to your child since they haven’t developed a healthy emotional range to deal with certain things. Therefore, you need to watch what you say to your child. It might seem innocent but can have a negative impact on them. Here are certain things you shouldn’t say to your child.
- “How will I pay the bills?”
There is a right and a wrong way to teach your child about finances. You might be able to afford something they want at that moment but don’t burden them by asking how you’ll pay the bills. This is out of their control and such questions will only make them anxious. A better way of saying you can’t afford something is giving them a cheaper alternative or telling them they can get it if they do something. 7 Ways We Can Teach Children The Importance Of Financial Management
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- “When I was your age…”
This a common thing we’ve heard as children. Our parents made a point to remind us how hard their childhood was or how they would be top of their class. This was their idea of motivating us to work harder in school. However, it’s an indirect way of telling your child they’ve failed to meet your personal milestones. True or not, it can discourage your child further. Children develop at their own time and focusing on meeting timelines can rob you of the joy of celebrating their little wins.
- “Keep Quiet. Adults Are talking.”
Such requests hit the ear in a harsh manner making your child become defensive. Even adults don’t want to hear this. It’s important to teach your child how to be respectful around other people but there’s a right way to do it. Your child will learn faster if you use positive reinforcement. If they’re trying to get your attention, give it to them even if it’s for a few seconds then suggest that they do another activity. You’ll notice that your child will interrupt you less since they know they have your attention.
- “You can do better.”
As opposed to adults, children don’t take this as a challenge. It does the opposite of encouraging them as it seems like you’re not satisfied with the efforts they’ve put in. If you feel like they can “do better”, be clear about what you expect from them. Let them know what areas they can improve on while appreciating the effort they’ve made.
- “Stop acting like a girl”
Firstly, this is offensive to all girls and women since it subliminally suggests that girls are lesser than boys. However, saying this to your son is telling him he doesn’t have what it takes to be a man. This not only hurts his feelings but also affects his self-esteem. Boys, at any age, take pride in being “the man”. Therefore, saying that he’s acting like a girl makes him question his manhood.
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