What Is The 'Yes Sandwich' Concept In Parenting And How Does It Help?

'Yes sandwich' concept Often, parents lose their patience when children demand something that is not 'ideal', 'healthy', or 'appropriate'. For instance, they may want to eat an ice-cream during dinner time, prior to their meal. Or, they may want to visit the park before finishing their school work and other more important chores. Many children also throw tantrums when out in the public, demanding instant gratification via junk foods. Instead of losing their temper, parents can try to implement the 'yes sandwich' concept to assuage their kids and control the situation efficiently.What does it mean? According to parenting coach Swati Gupta, the 'yes sandwich' concept means you do not immediately say an assertive 'no', but sandwich it between two 'yes' so as to calm down your child. For instance, if they demand to watch television before finishing their meal, you may say: Yes, even I want to watch TV for a while. But, let us finish our food first. Then, we can watch something together. In an Instagram post, the expert mentioned that it is a great way to stop the child from throwing tantrums, allowing an open and healthy channel of communication. Read on to find out how it helps.Positive communication This concept allows for families to encourage and build positive communication channels between the parent and the child.Feeling heard The 'yes sandwich' concept can help children feel heard and understood. They will know that their parents are actually listening to them. It will also teach them to accept feedback gracefully, and foster a sense of empathy and understanding.Healthy decision-making This concept will prod children to think, thereby promoting healthy decision-making and problem-solving skills in them. They will learn what is best for them.Parent-child relationship In the absence of conflict, a positive parent-child relationship will be maintained in the family. It will reduce the likelihood of power struggles or defiance, said the parenting coach, adding that it will also encourage cooperation and compromise, providing a 'constructive framework' for addressing disagreements.Self-esteem in children When they learn to decide for themselves and are encouraged by parents, children will automatically become more confident, and there will be a big boost to their self-esteem.