One of the virtuosities that an able parent must possess is the power of negotiation. Now, you must be wondering, “Why should you negotiate with your kid, when you can effortlessly impose your choices on them?” That is an expedient shortcut with despondent after-effects.
It entails a major part of their character construction, whereby lies your duty to develop it in a positive way. Most parents face problems with obstinate children, who tend to stick to their demand and argue in order to support it. That is exactly when refined, rational negotiation comes into play.
This article is for those frustrated parents who face problems in their parenthood, and desperately want to know the best way to deal with the situation.
Tips to Negotiate with Kids
The following guidelines will aid you to seek a way out of your disturbed parenthood and bring forth the development of a lovely relationship with your kids:
Agreement vs. Argument
You can interact with your child in an accent of agreement. You can try asking him questions that accentuate his willingness and independence. This elevates the chances of getting a positive revert over a negative one. For example, ask him, “Will you bring those items?” rather than, “Bring those items, now.” To add an intonation of request than order.
Involvement
You can interrogate him in a manner which involves procuring his opinions and viewpoints, not yours. Getting him involved bargains for a sincere reply.
Explain Yourself
When you assert something, give a plausible reason for your action. This is a learning process for the children as well, since it will motivate them to be accountable towards you for their future actions. Explaining your opinion will prevent further argument caused due to mounting curiosity of the children to know the cause.
Don’t always give-in
Negotiation does not always involve consideration from your side. When negotiating with your child, remember to stick to a result that promotes symbiosis over one-sided exploitation. When your child demands for 10 minutes time while you can allow 5 minutes only, consent to 7 minutes of time, which is the outcome of mutual understanding and decision-making.
Criticism vs. Question
If you are faced with careless rebukes from your child, instead of getting infuriated, counter his statement with a logical question and ask for his explanation supporting his demand. This will act as a tactical reprimand to his behavioral crisis and demand for his respect for your position.
Cool Down
If you feel that situations are getting out of your control, do not let your emotional upsurge possess you, since, that may exacerbate the situation. Instead, leave the room, let the anger subside, then come back to pursue the conversation with a more logical zest.
Negotiation can help sort out difficult situations and bring in an air of consideration and agreement within the room. This can uplift the quality of interaction with your stubborn child and hence facilitate you to achieve your requirements without emotional outbursts and involvement of bitter moments.
