02/22/2026
Parents, consider this your permission slip.
You are allowed to say no.
You are allowed to set boundaries.
You are allowed to hold limits, even when your child is upset about them.
Your child does not need you to negotiate every decision.
They need you to lead.
When you calmly say,
“No, that’s not safe.”
“No, that’s not respectful.”
“No, that’s not happening.”
…you are not damaging the relationship.
You are building security.
Children and teens may act as though they want full control. Most do not feel safe when they have it. Developing brains need structure. Emotional systems need containment. Anxiety decreases when expectations are clear and consistent.
You can validate feelings and maintain the rule.
“I see that you’re disappointed.”
“And the answer is still no.”
That is not rejection.
That is loving leadership.
Boundaries do not harm healthy attachment.
Inconsistent limits do.
Stay calm.
Stay firm.
Your child needs you to be the adult in the room.
-Liz