- Always talk eye-to-eye or face-to-face. If your child is in the next room and you want to talk to him/her walk in to the room, rather than yell from another room and express in words, calm words, that your child will understand that you would like to talk to him/her.
- When you are talking to your child have a smile on your face. Not necessarily a 'smile' per say, but a pleasant look, not an angry or mad look. Your child is more likely to respond to you when you approach pleasantly. Even when you have to talk to your child about something bad, make sure you keep your happy face on and stay strong.
- Have a daily routine. It is very important for your child to have structure in their lives. When they have a schedule or routine, they know what has to be done next and are less likely to question your actions.
- Ask your child not to yell. Just tell your child if he/she yells you will walk away and go about your business. Let them know that you will do/expect the same thing. When a child does this to a parent, the parent should be able to look at the situation and realize what just happened. Realize that the parent is acting just like the child.
- Walk away from the argument. This stops the fight and shows the child that you are in control.
Sometimes, it seems like nothing will work, so you yell, make your voice louder and stronger, but it only makes the situation worse.
