Three tips to help teach your kids about money:
Step 1: Go brain dead!
That means you don't engage in the content of the argument, or think about what the child is saying. While you may be tempted to reason with your child, it's likely that an argumentative child will try to trap you with your own words when you try to reason with him or her. This does nothing but embolden an arguing child.
Step 2: Say softly and genuinely, "Love you too much to argue."
The parents who are the most effective at using this statement find they don't need to be creative. They just repeat the same line ... over again. Some parents successfully end the matter by following their one-liner with: "And what did I say?" as they walk away to continue their day.
This statement tends to backfire if used sarcastically. It is not intended to be a flippant remark or to discount the feelings of a child. When we argue with our children, or allow them to manipulate us, we reinforce those behaviors as acceptable ways for kids to get what they want, in the toy store or anywhere else.
About Jim Fay
In his 20 years as a speaker and consultant, Jim Fay has become one of America's most sought-after presenters in the fields of parenting, positive discipline, and classroom management. He is a best-selling author, and has become the pied piper for parents and educators searching for practical behavior management techniques. He is the Co-Founder of The Love and Logic Institute in Golden, CO.
To contact Jim, call 1-800-338-4065 and ask for Patty or email patty@loveandlogic.com.
About Kristan Leatherman, M.S.
Kristan Leatherman is an Educational Consultant, speaker and family life counselor with over 20 years experience working with parents, educators, and children. Kristan is committed to helping adults raising self-reliant children in a self-indulgent world. She recently founded the Millionaire Babies Project, an initiative that uses the book, seminars and personal experience to jumpstart America's need to teach our children about personal and financial responsibility.
To contact Kristan, go to www.RaisingMillionaireBabies.com, 530-879-9126, or e-mail Kristan@RaisingMillionaireBabies.com.
