The things that parents say to their kids are a very big influence into what they will become later in life. During the formative years, children’s primary source of information, knowledge and everything that they can learn are their parents thats why parents should always be mindful of whatever they say, and how they say it, when talking with their children. Here are seven common phrases that most parents use and their corresponding alternatives according to Cynthia Dermody.1. What you say: “You’re the best!”
What they hear: “Your job in life is to make me happy.”
A better way to say it: “You should be proud of how hard you worked.”

2. What you say: “Watch your language!”
What they hear: “I’ve tuned out what you’re really trying to say.”
A better way to say it: “I’m so glad you came to talk to me, but I have one request for the future. I find that word offensive, so please don’t use it.”

3. What you say: “We can’t afford that.”
What they hear: “Money is the answer to everything.”
A better way to say it: “The store is filled with great things today, but we’ve got lots at home already and we’re not going to bring home anything more.”

4. What you say: “Don’t worry — it’ll be okay.”
What they hear: “You’re such a drama queen!”
A better way to say it: “I totally understand what you must have gone through. Tell me about it.”

5. What you say: “Don’t talk to strangers.”
What they hear: “Anyone you don’t know is trying to hurt you.”
A better way to say it: “Don’t talk to people who make you feel uncomfortable. Here’s how to tell.”

6. What you say: “Make sure you share.”
What they hear: “Give away your stuff.”
A better way to say it: “Jesse would like to play with your race car for a while, but it’s still yours and he will give it back.”

7. What you say: “Why did you (miss your curfew, hit your sister, etc.)?”
What they hear: “You messed up again.”
A better way to say it: “My guess is that you missed your curfew because you were having fun and didn’t want to come home, but that’s still not okay.”

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This entry was posted on Wednesday, March 19th, 2008 at 12:33 pm and is filed under Teen Depression, Teen Drug Abuse, Teen Health, Teen Help, Teen Inspiration, teen behaviors, teen safety. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.