I have only just started to use your methods but already I have managed to feel better about a number of incidents which were bothering me. My husband and I have started to use your recommended language on our children. My 6-year old now corrects me and says I'm not naughty. I just did a naughty thing when I smacked my brother'.
Parent, Country NSW

After I explained to my 3 ¾ year old son about not using labels, he told his grandmother not to use labels when she told him he was a bad boy. Asked to explain to her what labels are, he said, I'm not a good boy, I'm not a bad boy, just I do something good. My behaviour is good. Another time he asked me if I still love him when he is naughty, so I explained that I always love him, but I don't like it when he does a naughty thing. Later that day he carefully explained to me that he loves me, but does not like it when I do a bad thing.
J.M., Sydney

One of the main parts of the book was the section on praising your children. I've heard many parents saying good boy or good girl to their children, but this doesn't really tell them what specifically is good about what they have done that was good. Sabine recommends that you use 'doing' and 'action' words for praise. That really works. I've also taught Jack (age 3) to encourage himself and he is happy to give most things a go that previously he didn't think he could do. I can see his self confidence growing by the day. I can't recommend Sabine Beecher's book enough.
A. and A.B., Sydney

Reading "Happiness, It's up to You!" I have picked up some great tips for dealing with my 3 year old son. I have dropped the you're a "good boy/bad boy" labels and instead refer to his behaviour as good or bad. The effect has been profound. He still mucks up of course but he quickly realises why it isn't acceptable now, and we have far less tantrums than we used to!
M.D., Sydney