No parent wants to be the bad guy but there are times--plenty of them if you ask me--when you have to say "no" to your kids. It may be in a grocery store line, a toy store, a recreation park or any one of a number of places or situations. Here are a few tips on saying "no" along with a video tutorial.

MoneyTalks contributor Angela Colley has some good advice.

Offer alternatives-- For example, your child may want to spend the day at an amusement park, but you can’t afford tickets. Instead, offer a cheaper alternative like spending the day at a playground. Your child still has fun, and you save money.
Explain ahead of time--Before you leave home for the grocery store, explain what the trip is for and what you will and won’t be buying. But offer to take your child another day so she can use her own money to buy something.
Set a budget--Here’s another way to prevent shopping trips from turning into “I want” and “no” battles: Teach your child some basics about budgeting. For example, when your child needs new school clothes, give him a set amount and let him pick out what he wants (with some gentle guidance from you, of course).
Offer to reconsider later--If your child asks for something you really can’t do right now, like take a trip to the park or library, say “Not right now” instead of a simple “no,” and provide an explanation. Your child will appreciate being heard.
Be honest--I know plenty of parents who want their children to believe they can provide everything the children could possibly want, but real life doesn’t work that way. If you can’t afford it, be honest. For example, if your child wants to play a sport with pricey equipment, explain that it isn’t in your budget and ask your child to come up with a cheaper alternative.

via 10 Ways to Say No to Your Kids, and Why You Shouldn’t Feel Bad When You Do | Money Talks News.

Here is a helpful video tutorial on smart ways to say "no".

Bottom line, "Good luck!"

 

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