8 things to say instead of "BE CAREFUL!"

It is so important to teach children critical thinking skills, as they can learn to rely on themselves when thinking through a problem or challenging situation. This is directly related to emotional regulation, self-awareness, effective problem-solving, independence and self-esteem.

Critical thinking skills help us:

• Think through a problem

• Creatively think of solutions

• Consider other people's perspectives

• Plan the steps of a project

• Understand how to prioritise

One important situation this can apply to is children’s dangerous behaviours. As adults we tend to use the phrase "be careful" very often when interacting with children - often with very little success. Children still continue their dangerous behaviours, no matter how often they hear the phrase! Let's think about it though .. it makes sense that they don't follow our instructions:

• They are not specific enough

• They don't encourage problem-solving

• They don't foster spatial awareness

• They might bring out feelings of fear or anxiety

• They do not welcome trust in themselves

Hopefully the examples portrayed in the image prove helpful!