"Be like your brother or sister." Comparison is a big no in parenting. As a parent, you must understand that children are never born equal or the same. If you're trying to correct a negative behavior in your child, don't compare her to her other siblings. Show her how to behave appropriately by using herself and her present situation as the only point of reference for the correction.
"What's your problem." This statement is a aggressive in nature. When said in a demeaning manner, your child will think right away that she is a trouble maker and nothing good comes out of her. This statement also breeds miscommunication and ill feelings that make children clam up. Instead of saying this, "Is something bothering you? Tell me. So, I can help you."
"How many times do I have to tell you to this and not to do that." This statement makes a child believe immediately that she's incapable because she needs to be told the same thing over and over. Before getting frustrated and angry, take a deep breath and have a discussion with your child again. Then, tell her to remember everything you've said. This is a good way to put on her shoulders the responsibility to remember your agreements.
