What to Say Instead of “Hurry Up!!”
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Rather listen? Here’s a link to this episode on my podcast!
I know it’s tempting to fall back on shouting at our kids to hurry when we’re in a rush. But it often just leads to more dawdling because now they feel pressured and can sense our impatience. Here’s what to say instead!
1. Say the one thing you need them to do
“Shoes!”
“Jacket!”
“Brush teeth!”
“Breakfast!”
Double points if you point to what you’re referring to.
2. Refer to where you’re going in a playful way.
“The store can’t wait to see us! They’re probably wondering where we are. We better get going.”
“Your friends are probably waiting for us. Oh no! We better go now or they’ll begin to think we’re not coming to school today!”
3. Use animals to describe the speed we need them to be in.
“We are on cheetah time and we need to move fast!”
“Let’s transform into fast bunnies and hop to the car!”
“Ahh! Let’s pretend we’re gazelles running away from lions trying to eat us! Ahh, let’s hurry and put on our shoes so we can get out of here!”
4. Talk about what you’re looking forward to.
“I can’t wait to listen to music when we get in the car. Do you have a song you want to listen to?”
“I wonder what library book you’ll pick out at school day!”
“Oooh! Today is pizza day at school!”
“I can’t wait to pick out some yummy snacks! Any special requests?”
“I can’t wait to see your friends when we get to school. I wonder who will be there…”
Want more? Check out some of my FREE resources below!
Guide to Becoming a Calmer Parent | Positive Parenting Checklist Bundle
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[…] instead of “hurry up,” you could say “walk to the car please.” One of my colleagues, The Mom Psychologist, recommends that parents give one or two words to tell kids what they need to do such as […]
[…] instead of “hurry up,” you could say “walk to the car please.” One of my colleagues, The Mom Psychologist, recommends that parents give one or two words to tell kids what they need to do such as […]