How to handle pestering

Children can pester you by repeatedly asking for things or ignoring you when you say no. It’s normal for children to do this and have tantrums if they don’t get what they want — but it can be hard not to give in to the pestering. 

Puzzled young girl looking at teacher

Being prepared can reduce pestering

What to say to your child

We all give in to pestering now and then, and this doesn’t do any harm. But you’ve probably also noticed that the more you give in, the more you get pestered. The key to reducing pestering is to have a few strategies you can use when you need them.

If there’s something they’re desperate to have and you’ve already explained why you’re not buying it, you can try:

  • Suggesting they could do paid chores to help them save up quicker.
  • Adding it to a birthday list (you can go through the list with them closer to the time if it gets too long).
  • Offering them a reward if they can give up the thing they’re asking you for. The reward can be something simple that isn’t going to cost extra. For example, you could let them choose which treat you’re going to buy. 
  • Explaining that they can use their pocket money to save up for it – you could even write it down on a list to make it feel more real.
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