Because just is not the answer
Children are curious by nature. When they are younger, it is usually because they want to understand something. When they are older, it is because they want to better understand why you think something is important and why they should also feel the same way. Regardless of age, it is important that when you set up rules and expectations in your home, understand your child there is no room for questioning the rules you set forth and the consequences of breaking the rules.
Young children often do not understand a long explanation of why it is important that they stay home from his friend home at a certain time or why they are not allowed to play ball in the house. But one thing they do strive to make the most of the time to make their parents proud and happy. So when a child asks Why? , or Why not? , when they are told they can not play with something or someone, or why they have to obey a rule you have set, just explain to them that because it makes me happy when you follow house rules and do what I asked you. You should avoid using the term Because I said so, that only adds to the child is frustration and confusion.
Older children, adolescents and young alike will probably require more from your credit card statement. When the question Why? , or Why not? , it is best to directly, honestly and clearly state your reasoning. , I asked you to be home at 22:00 because we have to be at the dentist s office first in the morning for a check-up and we can not be too late. There is also a great opportunity for you to repeat the consequences of breaking the rule. If you are not home by 10 pm, you will be grounded from going to your friend s house for a week. Be consistent, be firm and be ready.
Even though your child may challenge you by asking your reasoning why a rule has been put in place, it also displays his growth as an individual thinker. So try not to get angry or frustrated when they do, they realize that it is their way of understanding their world around them.
