It’s all about safety and establishing a routine for babies and very young children, but even when speaking to young children, how you communicate these limits is important.
Explain the limit in a positive way that explain why there is a boundary:
- “Hold my hand when we cross the street. There are lots of cars and you might get hurt.”
Use an “I-message:”
- “I can’t let you throw sand, you might hurt someone in the sandbox. Unless you stop, we’ll have to go home.”
Consequences should be logical:
- “If you yell loudly at the movie, we’ll have to go home because other people can’t hear.”
Use “when” statement to communicate your expectations:
- “When you have washed your hands, you can have a snack.”
Offer choices:
- “It’s cold outside, you can wear your sweater or your jacket.”
Further Reading
5 Ways to Set Limits by Eleanor Reynolds
Essentials for Parenting Toddlers and Pre-Schoolers: Creating Structures and Rules from the CDC