How to Teach Kids to Say No

Real peer pressure is nothing like the movies. It’s subtle, and teens may not realize they’re out of their comfort zone until they have regrets. You can teach them how to steer clear of peer pressure by helping them be clear. “No” holds more power if they use it only when they mean “no.” Teach them not to say “no” when they intend to change their answer to a “yes,” and to use other words or phrases such as, “I don’t know” or “maybe” when they don’t know or feel unsure.


