Positive Parenting Tips and Scripts

How many times have you found yourself saying “No!” or “Stop that!” — only to realize it doesn’t change your child’s behavior? 

Decades of developmental and behavioral research consistently show a simple pattern: children repeat behaviors that earn positive attention, while frequent negative reactions can unintentionally reinforce the very behaviors adults want to reduce. Rather than concentrating on “what not to do,” families can shift to guidance that is clear, calm, and proactive, turning corrections into positive, teachable directions.

1) Show delight whenever you can. 

Warm, genuine approval is not “spoiling”; it is behavioural coaching. When an adult’s face, voice, and words communicate authentic pride, children receive a clear signal: this is the behaviour that works well in our family. Keep it specific and immediate—name what you saw and why it matters.

• “You put the toys back in the basket. That was responsible.”

• “You waited for your turn. That was patient.”

  
  

  

  A scissors skills lesson at HEI Schools Saigon Central

  
  

  2) Redirect instead of repeatedly correcting. 

When a child is doing something you do not want, treat it as a learning moment: stop the behaviour, state the boundary briefly, then offer an acceptable alternative. This approach protects the relationship and teaches the skill—without extended lectures or emotional escalation. For example, if a child draws on the wall:

• “Walls are not for drawing. Paper is for drawing. Let’s get your sketchbook.” If you want to expand the alternative:

• “If you want a big space, we can use chalk outside.”

  
  

3) Build a short list of reliable “positive scripts.” 

Like any new habit, changing adult language takes practice. Having prepared phrases reduces “in-the-moment” friction and keeps messaging consistent across caregivers. These scripts work best when they are brief, action-focused, and tell the child exactly what to do next.

Here are practical examples you can use regularly:

• “Show me gentle hands.”

• “Use a calm voice.”

• “Walk inside.”

• “Try again, slower.”

• “Ask with words.”

• “First ___, then ___.”

• “Where does that belong?”

• “What’s your next helpful step?”

• “Let’s reset and start over.”

• “Thank you for listening.”

  
  

The operating principle is straightforward: set firm boundaries, deliver them with calm clarity, and spend more time teaching the “right way” than reacting to the “wrong way.”

Some tips for parents from HEI Schools Saigon Central

Young children need and want your attention, and they will seek it in whatever way works. By using positive reinforcement and phrases, you can encourage desired behavior in your little one and build a deeper relationship with them along the way.