The Broken Record Approach

The Broken Record technique is a way to discourage arguing and talking back. It also keeps you focused and prevents the child from distracting you into something else. Keep your voice calm and level and keep repeating the original direction word for word. If your child mimics you, repeating the direction, stop and give a warning or consequence.

EXAMPLE 1:

• Mom: “It’s time to pick up the toys.”
• Child: “In a minute, I’m almost done.”
• Mom: “It’s time to pick up the toys.”
• Child: “Please, can I just have a few more minutes?”
• Mom: “It’s time to pick up the toys.”
• Child: “Why? You always let Chris stay up later when he wants to.”
• Mom: “It’s time to pick up the toys.”

EXAMPLE 2:

• Dad: “Time out for hitting your brother.”
• Child: “No time out! I’m sorry. I won’t hit him again. It was an accident.”
• Dad: “Time out for hitting your brother.”
• Child: “I said I was sorry. Chris, I’m sorry. There, is that good enough?”
• Dad: “Time out for hitting your brother.”
• Child: “No, no, no. I promise to be good.”
• Dad: “Time out for hitting your brother.”

It is easy to get caught up into an argument with a child, especially when we are trying to reason with them and help them understand the "whys" behind what we do. Unfortunately, this really does not help the child. Children are born testing limits. Arguing is just one way in which they do it. It is best to avoid arguments or long explanations and simply use the Broken Record technique when giving a directive to a child.

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