It’s human nature to want things we can’t have, to do the things we are forbidden to do. Not only that, but when we hear commands expressed in the negative, our minds can’t help but focus on the prohibited task. This is why everyone always looks down, every single time they are told not to.
I find this especially true in very young children. As their little brains are beginning to understand and process words, is it any wonder that they often do the exact things we are telling them not to do? “Don’t scream.” “Don’t pick your nose.” “Don’t drop your spoon.” I’m fairly confident the first word in each of those commands is often lost on young minds.
After a lot of practice, my wife and I are able to always instruct our children with positive commands. “Use a quiet voice.” “Put your finger down.” “Hold on to your spoon.” I find it to be surprisingly effective!
So if you really don’t want someone to look down, how about telling them to keep looking forward?
I find this especially true in very young children. As their little brains are beginning to understand and process words, is it any wonder that they often do the exact things we are telling them not to do? “Don’t scream.” “Don’t pick your nose.” “Don’t drop your spoon.” I’m fairly confident the first word in each of those commands is often lost on young minds.
After a lot of practice, my wife and I are able to always instruct our children with positive commands. “Use a quiet voice.” “Put your finger down.” “Hold on to your spoon.” I find it to be surprisingly effective!
So if you really don’t want someone to look down, how about telling them to keep looking forward?