We've found that the following phrases — uttered by well-meaning parents — don't work in teaching self-discipline, and we have a good sense of why:1. "If you don't work hard now, you'll regret it for the rest of your life." Another reason phrases like this don't work is that the context is beyond kids' understanding. But if you keep practicing, you'll have more confidence that you can face future challenges like this, and you'll feel really good." What successful parents do/say instead: Calmly explain your concerns: "I don't feel comfortable with this, and here's why..."Allow them to make mistakes.

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Persons: We've, —, you'll, We're, it's, they're, they'll