Fatherly

 

Kids are constantly making requests. Some are easily answered: “Of course you can go play outside!” Others can be immediately dismissed: “No, you absolutely can’t have an alligator for a pet!” But there are some requests that require more thought because the outcomes are not readily apparent or fulfilling the request might be inconvenient or contingent on variables out of a parent’s control. That’s when we reach for the old standby: “Maybe.” We all say it. But, as it turns out, it’s doing more harm than good.


    PARENTING   

The Trouble with Telling Your Kids “Maybe”


Uncertainty makes kids anxious, and parents look untrustworthy. Maybe that’s a problem?

 
 
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TIPS AND TRICKS


5 Things to Say to Your Kids Instead of “Maybe”

1) Straight Negation: “No. Because …” Make sure to provide reasons that are consistent with family rules and values
2) Straight Affirmation: “Yes.” But make sure that whatever is being agreed to happens within a reasonable time. Right after the request is best, but if that doesn’t work offer a deadline.
3) Affirmation, With Strings: “Yes, but …” Whether the contingency is completing or engaging in certain behavior make sure a kid has goals and a clear path to achieving them
4) The Delay Due to Outside Circumstances: “I will make a decision about this when…” Just make sure delayed decisions connected to needed information have a deadline and it’s clear what needs to be known.
5) The Delay Because You Need More Time: “I will answer after …” Be clear about when an answer can be expected. Make it sooner than later and stick with your timeline.


FURTHER READING

    PLAY   

The Best Movies for Kids Under 90 Minutes


Not too long and not too short. And they’re all currently streaming.

 
 
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    ENTERTAINMENT   

Catch up on Finding Raffi


Have you joined us in exploring the life and philosophy of Raffi yet? “Finding Raffi,” the podcast tracing the icon’s life from aspiring folk singer to international kids’ superstar to outspoken activist for climate action and a child-centric world, is halfway through — and we’ve learned a lot. Catch up with the episodes below and join us every Tuesday for more!

Episode 1 “The More We Get Together.”
In the first episode, we are introduced to Raffi — the music and the actual man — through the eye of new dad, second-generation Cuban, and comedic genius Chris Garcia.

Episode 2 “Impressions of Armenia”
Dr. Shushan Karapetian takes us on a tour of the Armenian Genocide — an event that shaped Raffi’s childhood and philosophy.

Episode 3 “Singable Songs for the Very Young”
We bring out the musicians and geniuses behind what may well be the greatest kids album of all time: Singable Songs for the Very Young.

Episode 4 “Thanks A Lot”
Go into this episode thinking of Raffi as a great musician, come away knowing he’s nothing short of an anti-establishment indie-rock icon.

Episode 5 “David and Severn”
Listen to the inspirational and brilliant David Suzuki and Severn Cullis-Suzuki, the father-daughter duo who opened Raffi’s eyes to the greatest crisis of our time.

 
 
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    STYLE   

7 Great Zip-Up Hoodies to Step Up Your Casual Clothing Game


The iconic piece of casual wear has never been better. If you're looking to upgrade, here are some of the best we've found.

 
 
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