S2E11 – Using the Choice-Giving Skill at Home: The Key to Reducing Power Struggles
Empowerment Choices
– Give your kids choices just for the sake of letting them feel empowered and in control
– Examples: Let them choose how to get to the car (hold your hand or push the cart), what to eat/drink, what to wear, where to sit in the car, what music to listen to, etc.
– This gives your kids a measure of control within your set boundaries
Enforcement Choices
– Give choices tied to reinforcing a limit you’ve set
– Map the choices to your child’s original desire/want
– Example: If they want to go play before dinner, the choices could be play with friends after dinner or watch TV after dinner
I emphasize using the word “choose” multiple times when offering choices to make it clear the child has the power to decide. Giving choices reduces power struggles, builds self-confidence, and helps kids practice decision-making skills.
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