14. That’s Not How You Feel
It’s crucial that you don’t try to minimize your child’s sentiments, even if you think something they say, like “I hate you,” isn’t entirely accurate.
One of the worst things parents can tell their children is, “You don’t feel that way.” Even if they disagree with them or wish they weren’t feeling that way, parents should respect their children’s feelings.
15. Why Don’t You Try Acting More Like…
It is nearly impossible for parents to avoid comparing their own children to other people’s children and their abilities. These observations also play a crucial role in assisting parents in determining where their own children are in terms of meeting expectations and milestones. It’s advisable to keep any of these insights to yourself if your kids could hear you talking about them.
The majority of the time, when a parent does say something like, “Look how Jimmy uses the potty,” or “See how Jenny zips up her own coat,” they’re aiming to highlight a good effect that will eventually trickle down to their child. However, generally speaking, making comparisons to promote particular behaviors tends to backfire.
These comparisons may lead to a youngster misinterpretating their parents’ wishes for different offspring. Additionally, this pressure can be confusing and end up harming a child’s self-esteem if they are simply not ready to use the restroom or operate a zipper. It is preferable to concentrate on what children can do rather than their difficulties.
16. I Was Raised In That Way
Even if our upbringing teaches us a lot about parenting, it’s exceedingly narrow-minded to deny a child’s request or criticize their behavior on the grounds that “that’s how I was raised.” Instead of immediately shutting them down with that line, explain to your child why you feel the way you do. It can be an example, but it shouldn’t be the focus of your argument.
17. I’d Rather You Hadn’t Been Born
No matter how angry you are with your child, it is never appropriate to express your regret that they were even born. Simply leave the situation until you have calmed down enough to respond in a less cruel way when you’re angry enough to say anything this harsh.
“You were a mistake.”
Even if your children weren’t planned, informing them that might leave them with mental scars that last a lifetime. Additionally, saying “we love you anyway” is ineffective. People desire to be loved unconditionally and without conditions.
