by Janette Waldron

Created on: November 10, 2010   Last Updated: November 15, 2010

Discipline doesn't break a child's spirit half as often as the lack of it breaks a parents heart.

~~Anonymous~~

Children are such inquisitive little beings. Their brains actually allow them to learn more in the first five years of their lives than it does the rest of their lives. They learn so much about themselves and the world they live in. With curiosity at the forefront of their very being, children wish to explore almost everything within their reach. Often times this leads to breakages, touching things they shouldn’t, placing themselves in danger and of course confrontations with their parents. While it is only natural for children to attempt to satisfy their curiosity, they often place themselves in danger or wish to explore things which are vetoed.

Consequently, the usual response is a firm “no”. When children are very young, this is simply another sound to them and nothing more. They have no conscious awareness that they are being defiant, naughty or touching something they shouldn’t. In fact very young children don’t even know the meaning of “naughty” or “don’t touch.” They learn by you removing them from the situation. So how do you say no in a language your kids will understand? “No” is a power-packed word. One which is quick on the lips, short, to the point and easy to say. Your child will hear you say this word quite often and you can bet your bottom dollar that once they learn its true meaning, you will hear if often enough from them in return.

Children need to hear the word “no” frequently enough so that they can learn to say “no” to themselves. Children are focused on immediate gratification, they usually want everything right now. Toddlers are notorious for the “I want it right now” desire. Learning to accept a “no” from anyone will be quite difficult as they don’t wish to say “no” to themselves. Children don’t wish to put out the flames of their own desires. Children have an impulsive reaction to a want, so they want a “yes” and nothing else. To learn how to use this negative word while teaching your child positive messages read the tips below.

Try To Strike A Balance:

Far too many “no’s” as well as the use of the ‘yes’ word too often, is said to cripple a child’s self-discipline. Children need the right balance of both to fully comprehend when a “no”

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