Ever find yourself stuck in the “Why did you…?” trap?
It’s time to ditch the why and embrace the power of the what!
Hey there, amazing educators and parents!
Let’s face it—when our kids mess up, what’s our first instinct?
To launch right into a barrage of “Why did you do that?”
But hold on a second!
What if that line of questioning is what’s really holding our conversations back?
Welcome to the game-changer: “Ditch the Why, Embrace the What.”
This approach allows us to shift the focus from the blame game to genuine understanding, right in the moment—whether in the classroom, hallways, or during a casual walk and talk.
Instead of asking, “Why?”—which usually gets us nowhere fast—try, “What’s going on?”
And if you get a shrug or an “I don’t know,” follow up with, “If you did know, what would it be?”
This opens the door to discovery, ensuring that we get to the heart of the matter.
You’d be amazed at what kids reveal when they feel heard, and that’s a win-win for everyone!
Remember, this isn’t just about fixing behavior; it’s about fostering resilience and problem-solving skills.
So, let’s dive in and learn how to transform those “What If Whens” into meaningful conversations that get results!
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This Week’s TurnAround is: Ditch the Why, Embrace the What!
Alright, you fabulous parents and educators—get ready to flip the script in just 30 seconds! 
Here’s your action-packed challenge:
1. Practice the Shift: Think of a moment when a child acted out recently (cue the dramatic reenactment). Instead of diving into the classic “Why did you throw that toy?” routine, try this: “What’s going on?” Channel your inner detective! This isn’t just about digging for dirt; it’s about discovering treasures of insight.
2. Play the “If You Did Know” Game: If they respond with a classic “I don’t know,” don’t panic! Smile and respond, “If you did know, what might it be?” Seriously, this phrase is pure gold. It’s like giving them a mental high-five and opening up the conversation for some real dialogue.
3. Reflect With a Twist: After your heartfelt chat, take a moment to reflect on your experience. Did you uncover something unexpected or hilarious? (Maybe they were just trying to build a spaceship instead of being a “problem child”!) Share your amusing discoveries in the comments below. Let’s swap stories and learn from each other!
You’ve got 30 seconds—let the heart-to-heart fun begin! 
Swap ‘Why’ for ‘What’—discover solutions and enjoy the journey!
And above all else, have some FUN with this!
Reaching out …
PS … As we wrap up today’s TurnAround Thursday, think about how much smoother your interactions could be if you had a proven system to help you navigate those tricky moments with today’s youth.
Imagine transforming those chaotic situations into opportunities for connection and growth. If you’re ready to take your skills to the next level and confidently defuse explosive moments, don’t wait—visit MaryReynolds.com/MAPit to learn more about my MAPit Micro System.
This engaging online mini-course is designed just for you, packed with invaluable insights that will help you reclaim your time and energy.
What You Can Do Next:
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