Encouraging Promptness Without Pressure: Alternatives to Saying “Hurry Up!”

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s not uncommon for parents and caregivers to find themselves frequently uttering the phrase “Hurry up!” to their children. Whether it’s getting ready for school in the morning or preparing to leave the house for an appointment, time constraints can lead to stress and frustration for both adults and children. However, this phrase can often have unintended negative effects, including increased anxiety and resistance from kids. As a family psychologist, I’ve observed and worked with numerous families to find more positive and effective ways to encourage promptness without pressure. Let’s explore some alternatives to “Hurry up!” that can foster cooperation and reduce stress, illustrated through real-life examples.

Encouraging Independence: Mason’s Morning Routine

Mason, a spirited 7-year-old, often dawdled in the mornings, leading to his parents frequently urging him to “Hurry up!” This not only caused tension but also made Mason feel rushed and anxious. Instead, his parents started using phrases like, “What’s the next step in getting ready?” This approach encouraged Mason to think about his routine independently and act without feeling pressured. Over time, Mason became more efficient in his morning preparations, and the household atmosphere improved significantly.

Setting Expectations: Landon’s Leisurely Lunches

Landon, a 9-year-old, had a habit of taking his time during meals, especially when knowing an outing was planned afterward. His mother, Brittany, used to say “Hurry up! We’re going to be late!” which only made Landon eat slower. By shifting her approach to, “We’re leaving in 20 minutes, so let’s make sure we’re ready,” Brittany set a clear expectation without directly pressuring Landon. This allowed him to manage his time better and reduced mealtime conflicts.

Offering Choices: Alyssa’s After-School Activities

Alyssa, a 12-year-old, often procrastinated when choosing which homework to start with or deciding on an after-school activity, leading her father, Timothy, to urge her to “Hurry up and decide.” Realizing this approach was ineffective, Timothy began offering Alyssa choices, such as, “Would you like to start with math or reading today?” This empowered Alyssa to make decisions more promptly and reduced her overall resistance to starting her homework or choosing an activity.

Positive Reinforcement: Charlotte’s Chore Challenge

Charlotte, an 8-year-old, was slow to complete her chores, often distracted by toys or her imagination. Her older sister, Brittany, found herself constantly reminding Charlotte to “Hurry up!” which only led to arguments. Instead, Brittany started using positive reinforcement, saying, “I love how you’re focusing on your task. Keep going!” This encouragement motivated Charlotte to continue with her chores without feeling rushed, and the siblings’ relationship improved as a result.

Conclusion

Shifting from “Hurry up!” to more positive and encouraging phrases can significantly impact children’s responsiveness and overall family dynamics. By fostering independence, setting clear expectations, offering choices, and using positive reinforcement, parents and caregivers can promote promptness in a way that supports children’s emotional well-being and development. Remember, the goal is to guide and support, not to pressure. Through understanding and patience, we can encourage our children to manage their time effectively while maintaining a positive and nurturing family environment.