Get Your Child to Stop Whining!
Whining can be one of the most annoying things your child does. Irritated, frustrated, and impatient, you might find yourself whining back, points out Nan Silver, author of "Rules for Parents." But the key to making whining ineffective -- and therefore hopefully cease -- is to not get sucked in by it or give in to it. Let your child know you understand what she is feeling or wants and respond calmly.
Don't get angry -- it gives your child a feeling of power over you, according to Jerry Wyckoff, Ph.D., and co-author of "Discipline Without Shouting or Spanking." He recommends having a special place or seat in your house for crying or whining. Then you can say something like, "I'm sorry you are so upset. You can go to the whining chair and come back when you have calmed down."
To stop whining before it even starts, take time to listen to your child. This prevents her from relying on whining as the only sure way to get your attention, says Janis Keyser, co-author of "Becoming the Parent You Want to Be."
You can also stress that a whiny voice is unacceptable, letting her know you can listen to her feelings and desires better when she speaks in a normal tone of voice. Some parents even rely on humor, saying something like, "I'm sorry, I don't speak Whinese -- you need to speak so I can understand you."
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