“Wise men talk because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something.” (Plato)

Most people could be far more effective in their parenting if they would take this quote to heart. Certainly, there are times when conversation is totally appropriate and will go a long way towards creating a good relationship with your child. But then there are the times when action speaks much louder than words.

There is an entire chapter of our book, ScreamFree Parenting, devoted to this idea. We call it, “Let the Consequences Do the Screaming.” When your child needs to be disciplined, there is no need to make a production of it. Be matter of fact and move on.

When your child doesn’t have to tune you out, they are much more likely to tune in when it counts.