The Best Ways to Say NO – Web MD

Saying “No!” packs a powerful punch. We use it often — sometimes too often — without even realizing it. To our children, we say, “No. Don’t touch that! No. You can’t have a cookie before dinner. No. You don’t need another (insert child’s favorite toy here).”

As children get older, we teach them to say no if asked to do something they don’t feel comfortable with. And as adults we say no to avoid adding more tasks to our already hectic schedules. With young children, it’s very important to say no when appropriate — specifically when you mean it and in ways that will not discourage your children from communicating with you as parents.

Dr. Tanya shares her expert parenting advice on the teaching toddlers and preschoolers the correct meaning of the phrase NO!