When You Want to Be Heard… Whisper

In our online course a parent once asked the following question:

I see the difference you’re talking about between typical parenting and parenting with the four messages in mind… and I like the difference I see… here comes the BUT… what about when you are pressed for time and have to get out the door and your kiddo won’t comply in a timely manner?

This is a great question, as this scenario of rushing out the door and trying to be on time has made all of us a little stressed at one time or another. Rather than dive in at once, we let some of the other parents in the course offer their advice. Here’s what three parents had to say:

I thought the same thing the first time I heard the seminar. The struggles will be reduced as you get practice in the steps. It starts with the message – is it about you or your child?

It is the time that my daughter and I struggle the most too! Now that I know it’s a struggle, if I can, I do find that praying ahead of time for, amongst other things, “the peace that surpasses all understanding,” is very beneficial in getting out the door in a relatively timely manner.

I discovered a few months ago when I had laryngitis that people (husband included!) listened to me better when I whisper. Now, when I’m in a hurry and want to get louder, I make myself get softer. It really does catch my 3 year old son’s attention and helps to keep him in the moment with me.

These parents get the struggle, and have given some great advice for all of us to remember! So, the next time you find yourself running late and ready to turn up the volume, Stop. Breathe. Remind yourself that the “big messages” are more important than this struggle right now. Pray for God’s peace. And when you’re truly calm, whisper.

Doing this in front of your children will speak louder than yelling ever could.

Want to learn more about these concepts? Download our one hour recording of a Discipline That Connects workshop.