Healing Happens Here
Healing Happens Here
The Arlington Youth Counseling Center (AYCC) is a welcoming and inclusive mental health clinic and the leading provider of outpatient and school-based child and adolescent mental health services in Arlington. Located in the historic Whittemore Robbins House, we are committed to delivering outstanding, equitable and accessible mental health services. Our mission is to ensure all youth and families have access to culturally sensitive and high-quality care, regardless of their ability to pay.
Spotlight
Dana Rochman's Tip
If it’s not a question, don’t phrase it as one!
Often, we offer “no” as an answer when it’s not actually an option. When we phrase statements as questions, we give the impression that the child has choice in a situation where often, they don’t. By being direct, we can reduce ambiguity and establish clear expectations which, in turn, can reduce unnecessary power struggles.
Instead of “Can you put your shoes on?” try “It’s time to put our shoes on!”
Instead of “Let’s clean up the markers, ok?” try “Five more minutes, and then we’re cleaning up the markers!”
If we recognize that our child does better when they have agency in a situation, we can phrase our question so that the option is around the task, rather than the task itself.
For example:
“Do you want to take your bath before or after dinner!”
“It’s time for school! Do you want to put your shoes on by yourself or with my help? On the couch or by the door?”
“We have five more minutes before we leave the park – should we spend those last few minutes on the slide or on the swings?”
Less power struggle = calmer parents and calmer kids!