When young children are angry, they scream or throw a tantrum. As
they get older, they say hurtful things, like "I hate you". When they're
mad, they go right for the jugular. How should you respond?
First: Respect your child's need to express angry feelings. Don't
take these exaggerated comments personally. You can reply: "Well, I love
you anyway, but you still need to take that time-out". Don't allow her comment
to change the rule.
Second: At a later time, discuss anger with your child. Explain how
people who live together normally have both positive and negative feelings
about each other. You can add "Sometimes I get angry with you, but I always
care about you."
Third: If your youngster threatens to run away; you can calmly state:
"That would make me very sad." Most children then drop the subject.
Fourth: As your child gets older, she may try to put you on a guilt
trip by saying "You don't love me". Your response can be: "Of course I love
you, but that has nothing to do with this," and then stick to your guns about
the consequence.
Do children try to play psychological games on us? What do you
think?
