Acknowledge feelings first
Use playful cooperation instead of commands
Offer limited choices
Describe the problem, don’t blame the child
Give information clearly and briefly
Say what you want, not what you don’t want
Break big tasks into small steps
Use routines and visual cues
Invite the child to help solve the problem
Replace punishment with problem-solving
Use humor and imagination
Notice and name positive behavior
Set firm, calm limits
Follow through consistently
Keep language simple and age-appropriate