Hi Coco!

As a child, it seemed like whenever I wanted something, asked questions, or tried to assert my independence, the word "NO" was all I heard. I was determined to break that cycle when I became a parent. I wanted to create an environment of encouragement, understanding, and open communication. Overall, I felt pretty good about the changes I made. However, when it came to my kids repeatedly asking for things, I noticed those old patterns resurfacing. Saying "no" became more frequent than I wanted it to be.

Can you relate?

Especially in summer, when there's more freedom, less stress, and our kids' imagination runs wild, their wants and desires are constantly on display. And that often leads to clashes between our "no's" and their desires.

But this summer, we can shift our parenting approach by discussing the N in FUN and answering the question: How can we say "yes" to our kids more often?

N is for turning your NOs to Yes!

Our tendency to respond quickly with a "no" might stem from what Dr. Dan Siegel calls a NO brain state. While spotting these tendencies in our children may be easier, it's worth considering if we fall into the same pattern.

The NO brain state refers to a rigid and closed mindset that tends to rely on dismissing or denying children's requests without much thought, resorting to punishment as a default response, and focusing primarily on limitations rather than opportunities.

By contrast, the YES brain state embodies an open, receptive, and flexible mindset that embraces possibilities, challenges, and growth. It involves approaching situations with curiosity, empathy, and a willingness to listen, nurturing problem-solving skills, adaptability, and emotional regulation.

If you find yourself stuck in a NO brain state more than you'd like (I know I did), the good news is that we can take steps to shift into a YES brain state. Here are some practical suggestions from Dr. Dan Siegel to help you move toward a YES brain state:

1. Cultivate mindfulness to recognize and regulate your responses: Practice bringing your attention to the present moment without judgment. When you feel the impulse to say "no" automatically, pause and take a deep breath. This allows you to respond consciously and choose a more open and flexible approach.

2. Develop empathy and understanding toward yourself: Parenting can be challenging, and it's natural to have moments of frustration or overwhelm. Instead of criticizing yourself for being in a NO brain state, practice self-compassion. Approach these situations with kindness and understanding, recognizing that you're doing your best. By cultivating self-empathy, you create space to respond to your children's requests more openly and empathetically.

3. Approach challenging situations with compassion and openness: When your children express their desires or requests, try to approach these moments with curiosity and empathy. Take the time to listen to their perspective, validate their feelings, and show them that you understand. Even if you ultimately need to set a boundary or say "no," doing so with compassion and openness can significantly affect how your children receive your response.

4. Practice flexibility, problem-solving skills, and embrace a growth mindset: Instead of seeing every request as a potential problem or limitation, view them as opportunities for growth and problem-solving. Encourage your children to express their ideas and desires and engage in open discussions with them. Explore alternative solutions together and involve them in the decision-making process whenever possible. By demonstrating flexibility and embracing a growth mindset, you create an environment where your children feel empowered and valued.

Remember, shifting from a NO to a YES brain state takes practice and patience. It's a journey of self-awareness and intentional choices. By implementing these practical ideas, you can gradually transform your parenting approach and create a more positive and harmonious dynamic with your children.

In our quest to create a FUN and fulfilling summer, we've explored three essential elements: focusing on connection, unveiling insights, and turning our "no's" into "yes's." By nurturing deep relationships with our children through affection, attention, and emotional support, we create a solid foundation for lasting memories and a strong bond. By gaining fresh insights into our children's strengths and challenges, we develop a deeper understanding and create a supportive environment that nurtures their growth. And by embracing a YES brain state, we foster trust, cooperation, and a sense of empowerment. This unlocks the limitless possibilities of a joy-filled summer.

So, what small step will you take to embrace a YES brain state this summer? It could be as simple as pausing before responding to your child's request, taking a deep breath, and considering alternatives before defaulting to a "no." Or perhaps you can consciously approach challenging situations with empathy and openness, striving to understand your child's perspective before making a decision. By consistently practicing these small steps, you'll gradually shift into a YES brain state and create a more positive and enriching environment for your family.

I wish you a summer filled with joyful moments, meaningful connections, and an abundance of "yes" moments that create beautiful memories for you and your children.

Warmly,

Coco