As parents, we’ve all been there – losing our cool and raising our voices at our children. However, it’s crucial to remember that our kids learn communication skills by observing us. During intense discussions, it’s vital to maintain respect and exhibit healthy conversation habits.

Here are some tips to help parents, guardians, and caregivers get your point across while teaching positive communication skills:

Adopt a Calming Tone Instead of matching your child’s raised voice with your own, try the opposite approach. Speak in a softer, more composed tone. Showing your child that responding calmly to an angry situation is much better than yelling. This will help defuse the situation and demonstrate that raising voices doesn’t solve problems effectively.

Repeat Yourself Calmly If there’s no room for negotiation on a particular issue, calmly and consistently repeat your expectations to the child. For instance, explain to the child that “If you kick a friend or siblings, you will need to take a break.” Deliver the message calmly and matter-of-factly, and eventually, they will understand.

Be Clear and Positive Use your child’s name when giving directions and express your requests clearly and positively. For example, instead of saying, “Minecraft belongs to everyone!” you can say, “Jimmy, it’s time to let your brother have a turn now.”

Inject Some Fun Defuse intense situations with a bit of silliness. For instance, instead of yelling at a distracted toddler to sit still for hair to be brushed and combed, try playfully saying, “Quick, Henry, I see Mickey Mouse in your head, and I need to comb him out. Oh, and Minnie Mouse, too!”

Take a Break  If tensions are high, call for a time-out. Suggest a breathing exercise and revisit the conversation when both parties have calmed down. This break allows for self-reflection and a fresh start.

Regain control when a discussion starts to derail. Pause and consider whether your words and tone will help or harm the situation. You have the power to redirect or restart the conversation more positively.

Seek Community Support Parenting a child with unique learning styles can pose challenges. Connecting with other parents who understand your experiences can provide valuable support and help you maintain composure during difficult conversations.

Parenting presents numerous challenges, but by modeling calm and respectful communication, you can impart valuable skills to your child while improving your interactions with your child as well. Seek community support from the community around you.