Saying Yes to No

This Friday, March 13 the Pleasant Ridge PTA, in partnership with PTA and PTO groups at Saline Area Schools, is hosting a great parenting workshop.  They have joined the rapidly growing statewide movement formed around the book No: Why Kids – of All Ages – Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It by Dr. David Walsh.

As a Superintendent, I say “no” often.  In fact, if you ask around the district, my guess is that many staff would tell you I say “no” too often!  As the father of four young children, I find saying “no” is often difficult.  Many of you know the strain of standing in line at Target with “cranky” children begging for candy or some other item that you had no intention of purchasing when you entered the store – only to set off the tears when you tell them “no.”  The look from the other adults in line tends to end up in two groups.  First, the ones who have been in your shoes and give you the sympathetic nod.  The other group tends to scowl and frown on your apparent inability to calm your children.

Dr. Walsh in his book outlines the strategies necessary to support the raising of children who need (and really do want) to be told ”no.”  I encourage parents to attend the event on Friday, March 13th at 6:00 p.m. in the Saline High School Commons.  RSVP by sending an email to salinecommunityconversation@gmail.com.  I hope to see many of you there.