How to avoid the "no" response

When you want small children to do what you ask, giving advance notice is often very effective: "In a little while, it will be time to..."

It's also important to watch how you phrase directions to preschoolers. Most parents say something like, "How about picking up your toys?" or "Do you want to come inside now?" when it's not really a choice. Toddlers are so literal that they hear it as a question, which they answer with "no." Instead, try phrasing it as a fun and/or interesting request, not as a question, such as, "Let's play clean-up."

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