Sometimes it’s hard to find just the right words to say. These catch phrases can help by offering you go-to phrases in stressful situations.

What could you try instead?

Context: Your child is working on opening their water cup. As you watch, they try twisting the lid, biting the cup, and shaking it; all attempts to open the cup. Suddenly, the cup is thrown across the room and your child is pouting. What next?

Move closer to your child and empathize. “I can see you’re trying really hard to open your water cup. You’ve tried a couple of ideas and none of them have worked. What could you try instead?”

As they suggest ideas, stay close by and be available to offer the least possible help.