Short explanations and simple reminders are more effective for children because they are more easily understood. Plain and simple.
This should be obvious to all of us, but if you have children you know what I am talking about.
You tell me which example a three-year-old is more likely to wrap their head around:
“When are you going to start listening to me? Do you know why I am mad? Go in the bathroom and see if you can figure it out. No. Here. I’ll just tell you. Because I guess I have to tell you everything over and over. You left your underwear in the floor for the ten-thousandth time. I am exhausted after a long day and I feel like I have to do everything at home too. Can you not help me out?
Or:
“Your underwear is on the floor.”
It’s about clarity has great impact, if you want to know the truth.
This works of adults too.
Understand: Simple explanations are more persuasive. (31 more)
Children dislike hearing lectures, sermons, and long explanations. For them, the shorter the reminder, the better.
-Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish, How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk (Amazon)
