Children can be demanding, especially in the younger years, and there are some tactical ways to handle it. When your child asks for something, it’s an opportunity to help him learn about communicating well and managing emotions – no matter what answer you plan to give.

Things to remember in case of a demanding child:

• Listen and think twice about the child’s demand before you answer.
• If your answer is no, try to negotiate first and convince them with a reason for refusing.
• Your response to your child’s requests teaches your child  communication, compromise and respect.

Though none of the parents want their children to be unhappy, at the same time  being able to accept no for a demand is also an important social and emotional skill. It helps children to learn how to self-regulate and handle disappointments. Following steps suggested by Sunshine Preschool & Daycare are useful when your child asks for things and how  as a parent how you can handle their demands.

1. If your child asks something; base your response on how your child demands. If politely, praise your child for using good manners– even if you don’t always say yes. If your child whines, let him know that you need to hear some good manners.
2. Take a moment to understand what your child is asking for. Show that you’ve heard and understood – this way, your child will be much more likely to accept your answer.
3. If you’ve decided to say no, give your reasons first. This will help your child understand your decision.
4. Stick with your decision because if you change your mind after saying no, your child will learn that no isn’t final and they understand that arguing with you can change your decision.
5. Instead of saying no; you can also negotiate & get a middle way where both of you are happy.
6. Set some ground rules about your expected answer in case of demanding things. This will cut down the need to say no to your child.

Toddlers often communicate what they want in simple ways. As a response; tantrums are  normal when you say no, because toddlers are still developing self-regulation and language skills.  Remember, a demand is not an emergency, something to punish, or a failure as a parent. It’s a call for help, an opportunity for connection for a child who is learning. It’s a need that is expressed; we have to choose the best way to deal with that!

Image credit: istockphoto.com

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