Assertiveness is a type of verbal and non-verbal communication style in which someone can share their thoughts and feelings in a respectful way.
Learning how to be assertive can help your child develop their own boundaries, positive self-esteem and confidence, and learn how to communicate what is important to them.
Assertive phrases are simple, to-the-point statements that are used to stand up to bullying behavior.
- Phrases can be a direct request, for example: “No.” or “Stop it.”
- Phrases can name the problem, for example: “That’s not funny.” or “That’s bullying.”
- Phrases can be “I” statements, for example: “I like the way I look.” or “I don’t like it when you do that.” or “I feel sad when you don’t let me play with you.”
You can practice assertiveness with your child from a young age. While reading books, you can focus on the behaviour of characters in books, and you can teach your child about boundary setting including verbalizing their needs. Role-playing may work better with older children and teenagers, giving the child a chance to practice assertive actions including a confident stance, maintaining eye contact and speaking clearly.
