Effective Strategies to Manage Stubbornness in Children

Managing a child's stubbornness can be challenging for parents. This article offers practical strategies to address stubborn behavior, based on insights from parenting expert Ishinna B. Sadana. Learn about common mistakes parents make that can inadvertently encourage stubbornness and discover effective ways to foster better communication with your child. By implementing these tips, you can help your child understand boundaries and reduce tantrums over time. Read on to explore these valuable parenting insights.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 29, 2025, 19:10 IST

Parenting Insights

Parenting Insights: Every parent aspires for their child to exhibit good behavior, yet there are times when children display stubbornness despite the best parenting efforts. This can lead to increased anxiety for parents. If you find yourself in a situation where your child frequently cries, throws tantrums, or insists on having their way over trivial matters, this article may provide valuable guidance. We will share some straightforward strategies to help you address your child's stubbornness, as recommended by parenting expert Ishinna B. Sadana on her Instagram account. Let's explore these tips.

Expert Advice

What does the expert say?
The parenting coach highlights that children's stubbornness often stems from common parental mistakes. By rectifying these errors, parents can help their children overcome stubborn behavior.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Switching 'No' to 'Yes'
One significant error parents make is changing their stance from 'no' to 'yes'. When parents initially refuse a request but later relent due to a child's stubbornness, it sends a message that persistence will yield results. This can lead to a pattern where the child becomes stubborn about various issues. Therefore, if you have said no, it is crucial to remain composed and adhere to your decision.

Mistake 2: Labeling as 'Stubborn'
Another mistake is frequently labeling the child as 'stubborn', especially in front of others. Such labels can lead children to internalize these beliefs, reinforcing their stubborn behavior. It's essential to avoid calling your child stubborn.

Mistake 3: Engaging in Arguments or Lengthy Explanations
The third common mistake involves arguing or providing extensive explanations when a child is being stubborn. When parents attempt to reason with a child during a tantrum, it often exacerbates the situation, reinforcing stubbornness. In these moments, it's best to remain calm and simply acknowledge the child's feelings by saying, "I understand you're upset, but we cannot change this situation." Avoid overreacting, as this teaches the child that tantrums will not lead to additional attention or fulfill their desires. Over time, this approach can help diminish such behavior.

PC Social Media