"When my kids show me something in a store, I do my best to be interested - like actually interested. When our kids show excitement about something, it's a goldmine of opportunity for parents. We get a better picture of their interests and inner world, and sharing in those interests is prime for connection. So when our kids see something they just have to have in a store, it's important that parents tune in and go beyond acknowledgment."
"I'm a mom of three, a former preschool teacher and parenting coach, and the founder of Parenting on Mars. This essentially makes me a professional hostage negotiator when it comes to kids. I have a way of getting in and out of stores with my children without meltdowns, without more stuff, and most importantly, a more connected relationship with my kids."
Parents should act genuinely interested when children show something in a store. Sharing children's excitement reveals interests and creates opportunities for connection. Parents can join the excitement with descriptive comments and playful observations, which validate feelings and model empathy. Connection built in those moments increases children's cooperation and reduces demands for purchases and meltdowns. Establishing a shopping tradition where parents tune into kids' interests promotes trust and respectful behavior. Practical phrases and small rituals can shift power struggles into collaborative moments and make errands smoother while strengthening parent-child relationships.
Read at Business Insider
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