![When it comes to kids, sometimes you just have to say "no".](http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/large_lightbox/hash/f2/c1/f2c15daf5b67ff96350e1484d4b85d7a.png "When it comes to kids, sometimes you just have to say "no".")
When it comes to parenting, don't be a "yes man/woman". Saying "yes" to our kids all of the time can actually be detrimental to their growth and development.
When we give in to our children's every whim, we are robbing them of the opportunity to build character, resiliency and self-esteem. John Walsh, Ph.D., author of "No: Why Kids--of All Ages--Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It," concurs with this notion.
In today's world, where both parents usually work, or a single parent works hard to juggle everything, we often give in to our kids' wants and desires, sometimes out of the guilt that comes from being able to spend less time with them. Not so fast, though.
If our children seldom get a "no", they miss out on the opportunity to build the reserves that help them cope with disappointment. And life is full of disappointments (as it is joy and celebrations). Answering our childrens' demands with mostly "yes'es" gives them a warped sense of reality and does little to prepare them for the world at large.
When it comes to our kids, sometimes it is best to just say "no"! Your kids will thank you for it later.
Comments
Good article and very valid points! Just say NO! :-) Your kids may not like you today - but will love you later... usually when they have their own kids! Kidding, they will love you anyway.
Hi Sue! You are so right! They will love us anyway. BUT...they will appreciate us soooo much more when they have their own!
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