“No” is a show-stopper. Most of the time, nothing creative, productive, or worthwhile happens after “no.” Of course, there are times when “no” is appropriate, perhaps even essential, but often parents and teachers do not stop to evaluate the situation to see if it is really one of those times. Automatically, many of us say “no,” without really thinking about it.
When you do stop to think about it, the answer may still be “no,” and if it is a firm “no,” then by all means, go with it. But oftentimes, there is some wiggle room. Here are some responses that might work for you when you don’t absolutely have to say, “No.”
- That’s an interesting idea; can you tell me more? This is a good one to use when the request is a big one with parts that are not very clear. While clarifying the idea, the child may identify some of the problematic issues on her own, which is much better than an adult pointing them out.
- I’m wondering about… This is a good way to point out a concern without directly stomping on the idea.
- Why do you think this is a good idea? This question requires the child to analyze the idea and make a case.
- Can you give me three reasons why this is a good idea? Similar to the last one, this one is especially good for older children. Finding worthwhile reasons to support the idea means that they have to really think it through and possibly look at it from your point of view.
- I can say yes, if you... This response gives the child a chance to make the idea work. It could be the child isn’t willing to work with your requirement, but it puts the responsibility back on the child, rather than on you.
- Can you see a problem with this idea? It encourages the child to find and solve the problem himself. If it turns out to be an nonviable idea, then he will figure it out on his own.
- Not now, but you can ask again later, and the answer might be different. Sometimes, this is really true. The idea is fine, but the timing is wrong. Ideally, give a specific time the child can ask again.
- I’ll think about it. This gives you some time to really think it through. Just remember that this answer can’t be given forever. At some point, a choice must be made.
The idea for this post was inspired by the improv class I am taking with my CGBF (and a bunch of other really neat people). The first thing they taught us is to always say, “YES!” whenever an idea is offered.
What a great reminder for someone who has found themselves saying no a bit more frequently than I used to. Stopped by from the Carnival of Homeschooling- enjoyed the post.
Well, you aren't alone in that one. I often say it without even thinking. Glad you enjoyed the post!
Oh, my this is SO good. I'm linking to it in my Saturday post round up (Peter Piper's Picks). Thanks!
I think the bottom line is paying closer attention to your children, being an encourager rather than a discourager.
I like that, encourager rather than discourager…gotta remember that.
Great post. I sing my kids the "No Means No, No is Always No" song from They Might Be Giants. It's still "NO," but at least it's a little easier to take at times – if nothing else, it gets them singing!
Yes now I will think twice before saying 'no' for anything , or at least would tell it in a subtle way so that it doesn't hurt anyone .Thanks . Such small things in life which we don't even care to give a thought actually matters most . You have put forward a great idea.:)
Here's a test from http://www.3smartcubes.com .This test finds out how sensitive you are to other’s emotions.
http://www.3smartcubes.com/pages/tests/sensitivity/sensitivity_instructions.asp
This is beautiful! Such great wisdom. When kids come at me in a tizzy I often catch myself wanting to say no just because their energy is so in my face. I have learned at those times to request they write their request down with details so I can absorb it better. They feel more heard and once in a while, my no turns into a yes!
I really like these ideas. They generate some good dialogue and promote decision making rather than impulsive selection. I caution using 4,5, and 6 as they do have the potential for setting up a "negotiating" for requests. This is a dangerous trap and very difficult to "un-train".
Otherwise, I really do like them. I will be incorporating them into my dialogue as a response to requests a little more often. I don't always say NO, but I often start with NO and the kids have had to "talk me into it" which has worked out well, but again, sets up negotiating patterns, which is not a bad skill, but can be trying when you need to have kids actually DO what you tell them rather than them learning to tell you "no" with the prescription here for 'not saying no' ways….
Make sense? Okay. Keep Calm and Carry On!