Award-winning experts Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish explain the countless ways the use of language can build self-esteem, inspire confidence and encourage responsibility. With easy to follow examples and case studies, they'll show you how to take simple effect steps that will change the mood in your home and empower children in unexpected ways. Of mishaps: Instead of 'Now look what you did!' try 'The milk spilled. We need a sponge.' Of misbehaviour: Instead of 'Bad boy! No more crayons for you!' try 'Walls are not for writing on. Paper is for writing on.' Of feelings: Instead of 'Stop crying. It's only a scratch!' try 'A scratch can hurt.' Full of humanity and wisdom, this is an invaluable guide to bringing out the best in relationships between parents and children.