05/28/2026
Let’s make this really simple.
A threat sounds like this:
“If you don’t stop right now, you’re going to be sorry.”
A boundary sounds like this:
“I won’t let you throw toys. If it happens again, I’m going to put the toy away.”
See the difference?
A threat says, “I’m angry, and now you should be scared.”
A boundary says, “I’m calm, and I’m going to keep everyone safe.”
So instead of saying:
“If you don’t get dressed, we’re not going anywhere!”
Try:
“You can put your shirt on, or I can help you. We’re leaving in five minutes.”
Instead of:
“Stop hitting your brother or you’re in big trouble!”
Try:
“I won’t let you hit. I’m going to move you over here so everyone is safe.”
Instead of:
“If you don’t clean this up, I’m throwing it all away!”
Try:
“Toys that are thrown get put away. You can try again later.”
Mama, boundaries don’t have to sound harsh to be serious.
You don’t need to scare your child to teach them.
You can be warm.
You can be firm.
You can follow through.
That’s the part that makes it a boundary.
Save this for the next time you feel a threat coming out.❤️
