Have you ever heard your child say, “You’re mean. I don’t like you!”—or call a friend or sibling mean—just because they didn’t get what they wanted?

It stings, and it can leave you questioning yourself as a parent. I understand—I’ve been there too.

Often, we end up in long lectures about how that kind of language “isn’t nice.” But that approach focuses only on what not to do, without showing kids how to express themselves in a better way.

If you’ve noticed your child glaze over, tune out, or give a silly response instead, you’re not alone. These are common reactions because kids don’t yet know what they can do.

In this week’s episode of the Sustainable Parenting Podcast with Flora McCormick, I’m breaking down this situation so you can understand what’s really going on and respond with calm parenting tips that actually work.

BY THE TIME YOU’RE DONE LISTENING, YOU’LL KNOW:

• What not to say when your child calls you or someone else “mean.”
• A simple, clear recipe for parenting without yelling in these moments.
• A ready-to-use script that helps you rephrase your child’s words and guide them toward a more mature way of expressing their feelings—one that builds confidence and connection.

✨Want more?

✨ Schedule a FREE 20 min clarity call with Sustainable Parenting, so we can answer any questions you may have. Together, we'll make a plan for your best next steps to have more calm & confidence in parenting - while having kids that listen!:)

✨NEW✨ pdfs and short video lessons on Respect, Bedtimes, Power Struggles and More: ON ETSY!

✨ Download the FREE pdf. on getting kids to listen, for strategies that take you out of the "gentle mom - monster mom" cycle, with effective positive parenting strategies.

✨ Sign up for an upcoming LIVE ONLINE workshop with Flora, or purchase a past replay: https://sustainableparenting.com/workshop where you get 30 min. of learning and 30 min. of LIVE Q & A time, with replays sent afterwards.

✨ Buy a 3 session Coaching Bundle (saving you $100) - for THREE 30-min sessions 1:1 with ME, where we get right to the heart of your challenges, and give you small, powerful shifts that make a huge difference f...