TAKE A BREAK
SOLUTION
For years, parents have relied on one classic trick. You say the opposite of what you mean, hoping your child takes the bait. “I bet you can’t eat all your broccoli …” Cue the determined chomping and, ideally, an empty plate. But if that strategy suddenly stopped working and your child is now giving you the “Nice try” stare, you’re not alone. According to parenting coach and Montessori expert Ankita B. Chandak, there’s a good reason your clever tactics are falling flat. Around age 8, many children begin developing what’s called “ theory of mind. ” In simple terms, they become skilled at picking up on other people’s intentions. Meaning they learn exactly what you’re doing. When you casually suggest they definitely shouldn’t tidy up, they can see the strings attached. And instead of feeling motivated, they may feel underestimated. So, what works better once your child catches on? Chandak suggests shifting from mind games to meaningful communication. To start, focus on clarity. Instead of hinting, try being direct. Explain the expectation and invite them to think it through. “You have a test next week and need to study. What’s your plan?” That simple question turns a command into a conversation. Next, invite collaboration. Giving children some ownership, like choosing whether to tackle homework before or after dinner, offers autonomy without sacrificing structure. You’re still guiding the outcome, but they get a say in how it unfolds. Finally, ask for ideas. When mornings feel chaotic or bedtime drags on, bring them into the problem-solving process. Children are often more cooperative when they feel heard. Asking “How can we make this smoother?” goes much further than a frustrated reminder. The magic is mutual respect, not manipulation. When parents acknowledge their child’s growing awareness and intelligence, it builds trust. Kids develop stronger decision-making skills, feel valued, and are more likely to follow through. And there’s a bonus here as well. When you stop trying to outwit your child, they stop trying to outmaneuver you. What replaces the power struggle is partnership. It turns out that the smartest move in parenting isn’t being one step ahead; it’s walking alongside your kids. CAUGHT IN YOUR OWN PARENTING TRICK? When Reverse Psychology Backfires
COCONUT SHRIMP CURRY
Ingredients
• 2 tbsp butter • 1 1/2 lbs jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined • 1 medium onion, diced • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped • 1 tbsp yellow curry powder • 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk • 2 tbsp honey, plus more to taste • 1/4 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
• Juice of 1 lime • 12 basil leaves,
chopped, plus more for serving
• Hot sauce (optional) • Cooked basmati rice, for serving
Directions 1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter.
2. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes, turning halfway, then transfer to a plate. 3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, then stir in curry powder and cook 2 minutes more. 4. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in coconut milk, honey, salt, and lime juice, and cook until gently bubbling. 5. Return shrimp to the skillet and simmer 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in basil and add hot sauce if desired. 6. Serve over rice with extra basil.
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