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Whining is a common behavior in young children, but it can be frustrating for parents. Ignoring the behavior, teaching children to ask in a big-kid voice, using humor, and implementing time-outs or rewards can help stop the whining and encourage better communication skills.
A baby’s whining can blow a parent off faster than anything else. Babies usually make the high-pitched squealing noise in an attempt to get what they want from a parent or provider. Often, when complaining doesn’t get her what she wants, a child may resort to tantrums. With dedication to the problem, a parent can help the child stop whining and use his own words as a big child.
Kids often whine because it works. They may have learned that the more they complain, the faster they get what they want. The best way to stop complaining is to ignore it. Inform your child that if he wants something, he has to ask in his big-kid voice. If he complains, you won’t listen.
Young children may not know how to ask for something like a big child and, therefore, resort to whining. Find out what your child wants and tell her how to ask for it. Have her repeat after you. If he won’t stop whimpering and asking properly, tell her you’re done listening.
Some children respond well to humor. Show your child what it sounds like when she whimpers at him. When he comes up to you and asks you something in a whiny voice, tell him you don’t understand, using your whiny voice. He’ll probably laugh and ask you like a big kid.
If your child won’t stop whining and it leads to tantrums, put him on pause. The appropriate length of time-out is one minute for each year of age. Tell your child that when she’s ready to talk to you like a big kid, you’re ready to listen.
A child will often exhibit the desired behavior when rewarded for it. Try to reward your child every time he asks for something without complaining. He will eventually stop whining and ask nicely just to be rewarded. Stickers and candies make great rewards.
When your child is able to go through the day without complaining, start rewarding them with slightly bigger incentives. Offer to read an extra story at night when he’s not complaining all day. A trip to the park can be tempting for active kids. Plan a fun trip when your child goes a week without complaining. Do whatever it takes, within reason, for your child to stop whining and for you to regain your sanity.
