Expert Button-Pusher Who Argues & Negotiates? 5 Scripts & Action Steps to Help.
Calm Parenting Podcast
Deep Dive
Why do kids often push their parents' buttons?
Kids push buttons because it works—it gets a reaction and emotional engagement from parents, giving them a sense of control.
What is the first step to respond effectively when kids push buttons?
Never react. Control your own emotions and refuse to escalate the situation, as reacting gives children power over you.
How can parents use gratitude to handle button-pushing behavior?
Gratitude helps parents see challenging behavior as an opportunity to grow emotionally and strengthen their bond with the child.
What is the benefit of doing the opposite of what you normally do when kids push buttons?
Doing the opposite, like sitting down and asking questions instead of lecturing, can lead to better outcomes and teach children to problem-solve.
How can parents address disrespectful behavior without escalating?
Be direct and tough, but also invite the child to respond maturely. For example, acknowledge their behavior and explain why it won’t work, then offer a more grown-up approach.
What is the deeper reason some kids push buttons?
Many kids push buttons because they are seeking intense emotional engagement, often stemming from underlying struggles or a need for connection.
How can parents rewire their responses to button-pushing behavior?
Parents can rewire their responses by identifying triggers (like anxiety, frustration, or hunger) and offering solutions or undivided attention instead of reacting.
Why is it important for parents to change their narrative about challenging kids?
Changing the narrative from seeing the child as
What is the role of humility in handling button-pushing behavior?
Humility allows parents to acknowledge their own issues and take responsibility for their reactions, modeling maturity and fostering better communication with their child.
How can parents use the Calm Parenting Podcast to address button-pushing behavior?
Parents can listen to the podcast with their kids, ask them why they push buttons, and learn from their responses to better understand and address the behavior.
- Children push buttons because it works.
- Parents' reactions empower children.
- Controlling one's own reactions is crucial to changing children's behavior.
Shownotes Transcript