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Never Say No: Raising Big Picture Kids in a Small World

Henry Green

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By Jessica Lahey

In her new book, Never Say No, Jessica Lahey argues that the best way to raise children is to let them experience the consequences of their own actions. She shares stories from her own life and the lives of her students to illustrate how this approach can help children learn responsibility, empathy, and resilience.

Never Say No: Raising Big-Picture Kids

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2317 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	306 pages

Lahey's approach is based on the idea that children are capable of learning from their mistakes. When they are allowed to experience the consequences of their actions, they are more likely to understand why those actions are wrong and to make better choices in the future. This is in contrast to the traditional approach to discipline, which often involves punishing children for their mistakes without explaining why they are being punished.

Lahey argues that punishment is not an effective way to teach children. It can lead to children feeling resentful and angry, and it can damage their relationship with their parents. Instead, she recommends using consequences that are logical and related to the child's behavior. For example, if a child spills their milk, they should be responsible for cleaning it up. If a child hits their sibling, they should lose their screen time for a period of time.

Lahey also emphasizes the importance of giving children choices. When children are given choices, they feel more in control of their lives and are more likely to cooperate. For example, instead of telling a child to clean their room, you could ask them if they would like to clean it before or after dinner. Instead of telling a child to go to bed, you could ask them if they would like to read a book or listen to a story before bed.

Lahey's approach to parenting is not always easy, but it is effective. When you let children experience the consequences of their own actions, you are teaching them valuable life lessons. You are also helping them to develop into responsible, empathetic, and resilient adults.

Never Say No is a must-read for parents who want to raise happy, healthy, and successful children. Lahey's wise and compassionate advice will help you to create a home where your children can thrive.

Reviews

"Never Say No is a game-changer for parents. Jessica Lahey's approach to parenting is based on respect, empathy, and common sense. She shows us how to raise children who are responsible, resilient, and compassionate." - Alfie Kohn, author of Unconditional Parenting and The Myth of the Spoiled Child

"Jessica Lahey is a brilliant educator and a wise parent. In Never Say No, she offers a refreshing and practical approach to parenting that will help children develop into happy, healthy, and successful adults." - Daniel Siegel, author of The Whole-Brain Child and Brainstorm

"Never Say No is a must-read for parents who want to raise children who are independent, responsible, and kind. Jessica Lahey's approach is based on common sense and compassion, and it works." - Arianna Huffington, founder of The Huffington Post and author of Thrive

About the Author

Jessica Lahey is an internationally recognized educator, writer, and speaker. She is the author of the New York Times bestseller The Gift of Failure and the co-author of the book Parenting for Humans. Lahey has been featured in numerous media outlets, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, NPR, and The Today Show.