Having children is a blessing and a lot of fun. However, no matter how great a parent you are, there are times when you have to say no. This is when arguments can start and they are likely to get worse as your child gets older.

You can avoid this by learning to keep your cool with an argumentative child. This will help them to stay calm and argue in a reasonable manner. That’s a useful skill for life. Of course, it will also reduce your stress levels, which is good for your health.

You should also note that understanding how to deal with argumentative kids will make it easier for you to ask the right questions and choose the right help from a reputable nanny services Sydney.

Take A Break

The moment the heat starts to rise you want to stop the situation. There is only one way to do this, that’s walk away.

Of course, you can’t just walk away from a child, or even an adult. You need to tell them firmly that this is not helping the situation. Tell the child you both need a break to collect your thoughts and then you will discuss it in a reasonable manner.

Do not restart the conversation until you have completely calmed down.

Sit Together

The next stage is to sit down together, on the couch or at the table. Tell the child that you would like to hear what they have to say and let them talk. It’s important that you listen and they know their voice is being heard.

Once you have heard what they have to say you can explain the reasons why you said no. (Most arguments with children stem from you saying no to something they want to do).

Explain slowly and carefully, ensuring they are listening, and they will appreciate your point of view.

Compromise

It’s highly likely that the situation doesn’t need a hard and fast no. In many cases, there is room for maneuver. You simply need to establish what they want and what you are prepared to offer. You can then suggest a compromise while explaining you are acting in the interests of their safety or health.

Of course, if there really is no room to move the boundaries for a specific situation then you need to state your reasons firmly and remind them that the answer is no.

Finish The Conversation

Give the child another chance to talk. This is their opportunity to share any additional thoughts they have or points to help convince you. Once you have heard them you can reiterate your answer and your reasons. (You can even change your answer if you think it is appropriate).

Then, tell them that the decision is final and that is the end of the discussion.

The Bottom Line

You have given your child a voice and listened to them. That means they understand they are respected as individuals. The end result is compromise or standing firm but they will accept it and you will have diffused the argumentative situation.

It doesn’t mean they will be happy but that’s another story.