#28 Ask for help to understand
Intermediate, ages 4-18
Ask children to give examples of what they believe is the problem. If they realize they are being taken seriously, they may calm down faster than if a parent lectured or pushed. Talking about a problem may help children think of solutions.

Example:
A teenager complains that her mother is being unfair. Mother responds, Ok, Terry, tell me what I am doing that is unfair. Give me an example so I understand better what you mean.

Next: Tool 29