Things to Avoid

01. Questions

“What are you doing? What did you draw? Do you want to play cars?”

Can feel intrusive or like a test, interrupting the child’s play. Fine outside play, but best avoided during playtime.

Questions

02. Commands

“Let’s build a house; Why don’t you use the blue crayon; Hand me the doll”

Takes control away from the child and limits creativity. Okay in daily life, but should be avoided during playtime.

Commands

03. Negative Talk

“Why are you being such a baby; You are being very difficult right now; Stop using it like that”

Undermines self-esteem, creates a negative atmosphere, and damages the relationship. It should be avoided entirely.

Negative Talk