10 Examples of Positive Instructional Language

Ross Ritchie
Feb 3, 2021
1 min read

Here are 10 examples of how negative commands can be swapped for Positive Instructional Language. When we use Positive Instructional Language, we use words that focus our child's attention on what we want them to do instead of the negative action. This has a far more positive effect than telling them 'what not to do'.

Don't lie > Speak honestly

Don't drop it > Hold it tight

Don't be cheeky > Be respectful

Don't hurt her / him > Be gentle

Don't run > Walk

Don't be mean > Share / Be kind

Don't shout > Speak softly

Don't touch > Keep your hands away

Don't fight > Play nicely

Don't break it > Be careful with that

Try using only positive commands for one week when responding to your child's behaviour and see what effect it has!

All the best,