Some alternatives to “No”

1. Give information (and leave out the “No.)
“Can I go to play now?”
“We will be having dinner in five minutes.”

2. Accept feelings.
“I want to come after five more minutes.”
“It is hard to come away when you are enjoying so much.”

3. Describe the problem.
“I would love to come to play with you. The problem is I have to finish this report.”

4. When possible substitute a “Yes” for a “No”.
“Yes, certainly you can have an ice cream when you don't have fever.”

5. Give yourself time to think.
“Mom, I want to sleep over at R’s house.”