Parenting Cheat Sheet: 5 one-liners to diffuse contention and create connection

Have these parenting one-liners at the ready!

Wouldn’t it be nice to have an expert in your ear at all times, guiding you through tricky parenting moments?

Parenting Coach Erin Morrison, known as the Conscious Mom, shared five powerful one-liners that can help moms diffuse contention and create connection with their children. It’s like a parent cheat sheet.

1. “You Can Be Mad, But You Can’t Be Mean”

Erin emphasized the importance of allowing children to express their emotions while guiding their behavior. She explained, “We want our children to know that all their emotions are welcome, but all their behaviors are not.” This phrase helps children understand that it’s okay to feel angry, but they must express it in a healthy way.

2. “I Love You Too Much to Argue”

When emotions run high, it’s crucial for parents to stay calm. Erin suggested using this phrase to teach children that important conversations require emotional regulation. She advised, “It’s okay to walk away and tell your child, ‘I need a second to think about this because this deserves my full attention.'”

3. “Did You Forget?”

Instead of putting children on the defensive with accusations, Erin recommended giving them the benefit of the doubt. She said, “I love giving our children the benefit of the doubt because isn’t that what we want?” This approach opens up a path for communication and understanding.

4. “I Told You I’d Always Be Here for You”

Rather than saying “I told you so” when a child makes a mistake, Erin encouraged parents to reinforce their support. She explained, “If we really want our children to believe that they can come to us with anything, how we respond to moments where they’ve made mistakes is crucial.”

5. “That Makes Sense”

Validating a child’s feelings can strengthen the parent-child connection. Erin advised, “Rather than saying, ‘I don’t understand why,’ you can say, ‘That makes sense.'” This helps children feel understood and supported.

Erin Morrison’s one-liners are simple yet powerful tools for fostering a positive and supportive parenting environment. By using these phrases, parents can better manage their own emotions and create a more connected relationship with their children.

For more insights from Erin, you can follow her on Instagram at @itstheconsciousmom.