5 Ways to Avoid Arguments with Your Kids

Kids will argue about anything if you give them a chance. By the time you finish the argument, everyone is unhappy. Make your life easier by following these five tips to cut arguments off before they start.

1. This or that
   Many arguments start with too many choices. Kids get overwhelmed when given too many options, so limit them to one or two. By giving them some choice, they can learn to make decisions and feel more in control of their lives. By limiting the choices you show that you are still the ultimate authority and you keep them from becoming overwhelmed and frustrated.
   
2. No promises
   Things go wrong. As adults, we know that the best plans can go awry. But kids don’t understand this concept. When you promise they will get something or you will take them somewhere, and then it doesn’t pan out, no amount of reasoning is going to cut it. Avoid this by not promising in the first place. Make sure they know it is an option, not a guarantee. Say things like “If we finish the chores on time today we might get ice cream” instead of “We’ll get ice cream later.”
   
3. Now
   Don’t do everything for your kids when they’re young and then expect them to kick into gear when they hit a certain age. Teach them responsibility now. Most teens have issues with doing their chores, etc because they were not taught at a young age. Teach toddlers to take out the trash, pick up their rooms, and make the bed. It is much easier to do when they are small and obedient than try to force a teen to change their habits.
   
4. Basics
   Many parents think that bigger is always better, but that’s not the way kids are. Kids love simple things. A cardboard box is just as wonderful to a kid as a hundred dollar play set. Don’t over-complicate things and stress both yourself and your children. Keep it simple and you’ll both have fun.
   
5. Think
   You need a plan. This doesn’t mean every minute accounted for, but kids need the stability of a parent that knows what they are doing. Make sure you know what you want to accomplish and make sure it is a reasonable amount. Stay flexible enough to change plans at the last second, but keep your goal in mind. You and your kids will feel more in control and less stressed.
   

It’s all about control. Either you are in control or your kids are. Stay in control, be the parent, and think ahead. Kids thrive when they feel safe, and a parent in control feels safe. Take it one day at a time and remember that the sooner you start, the better off you’ll be.


Author Bio
Sara is an active nanny as well as an active freelance writer. She also helps in providing information on nanny jobs through her writing. Learn more about her at: http://www.nannypro.com/blog/sara-dawkins/