Handling Conversations with Kids: Strategies for Saying Yes or No to Can We Go on a Hike this Weekend?

As parents, we’ve all been there – our kids come to us with excitement in their eyes, asking to do something fun, like going on a hike this weekend. While it’s wonderful to see them enthusiastic about spending quality time with us, we need to consider our schedules, energy levels, and other responsibilities before giving an answer.

Here are some strategies to help you respond effectively:

Check Your Schedule

Before committing to anything, take a quick glance at your calendar to see if you have any prior commitments. If you do, be honest with your child and let them know.

I’d love to take you on a hike this weekend, kiddo, but Mom/Dad has a meeting on Saturday morning. How about we plan something for Sunday instead?

If you have a free weekend, you can decide whether to say yes or schedule an alternative activity.

Assess Your Energy Levels

Let’s face it – hiking can be physically demanding, especially if you’re not used to it. Be honest with yourself about your energy levels and whether you’re up for the challenge.

I’m not sure I’m feeling up for a hike this weekend, sweetie. How about we do something closer to home, like a picnic or a bike ride?

Consider Alternative Activities

If you’re not able to go on a hike, think about other fun activities you can do with your child. This will show them that you’re still willing to spend quality time together, even if it’s not exactly what they had in mind.

I’m not sure about a hike this weekend, but we could always play a game of soccer or go to the park instead. Which one do you think you’d like?

Offer a Raincheck

If you’re truly unable to do anything this weekend, let your child know that you’re willing to plan something for the future.

I’m not free this weekend, kiddo, but let’s plan a hike for next weekend instead. I promise we’ll make it happen then!

Remember to be Firm but Kind

It’s essential to set clear boundaries and be firm in your response, while still being kind and understanding. Avoid giving false hope or making promises you can’t keep.

I understand you really want to go on a hike this weekend, but Mom/Dad has too much work to do. Maybe we can do something else together, like cook dinner or watch a movie?

Here are some additional example responses to help you navigate the conversation:

I’m not sure about a hike this weekend, but we can talk about it and plan something else that you’d like to do.

Let me check with Mom/Dad and we can discuss it together.

I’d love to take you on a hike, but we need to make sure we have all the right gear and snacks first. Can we plan it for another time?

I’m not feeling well enough for a hike this weekend, but maybe we can do something low-key instead, like playing a board game or reading together.

We can definitely plan a hike for another time, but this weekend is already booked up. How about we make a list of things we want to do together and prioritize them?

By using these strategies and example responses, you’ll be better equipped to handle conversations with your kids and find ways to spend quality time together, even if it’s not exactly what they had in mind. Remember to always be honest, kind, and understanding, and to prioritize your own needs and boundaries as well. Happy parenting!

Be kind ❤