Use of one-liners
The Love and Logic Way to Neutralize Arguments
Step 1: Going Brain Dead:
Don’t think about what the child is saying. Why? If you think too much, you might be tempted to reason with the student. And if you reason, it’s very likely that the student will use your own words to trap you.
Step 2: Softly repeat a single Love and Logic One-liner:
Adults who are best at these skills are usually those who don’t get creative. Don’t get fancy. Just repeat the same thing.
Choose a one-liner that fits your personality and memorize it. You may want to create your own. Remember: These are not designed to “get back at” children or “put them in their place”.
I respect you too much to argue.
I know.
Thanks for sharing.
Probably so.
Nice try.
That’s an option.
I don’t know. What do you think?
I bet it feels that way.
I’ll listen when your voice is as calm as mine.
The most effective adults are those who can repeat their one-liner in a very since, non-emotional manner.
Give this technique a shot, and see how much easier teaching and parenting becomes.