Whining - Making them hear it…and identify it

Don't assume that your children know what whining is and how awful it sounds. Identify whining when you hear it and ask your children to use their regular voice instead. There are often chances when children’s own set habits make them oblivious to the difference between normal talking and whining. This happens often if their older siblings also whine and most often get what they want through it.

If they have trouble hearing the difference, demonstrate it for them (without making fun of them). This is the first important step to take as it pertains directly to the children acknowledging the issue. Without this, children are likely to ramble on regardless, making a heavy burden on their parent’s nerves.

Some experts suggest tape-recording your child, both in mid-whine and during normal conversation. When the two of you are in a good mood, play the tape and talk about it. Explain that whining sounds unpleasant and makes people stop listening. Then, suggest a better way of doing things. It is through these associations that your children are likely to find a quiet and more mature way of getting things done for themselves.

Practice "good" and "bad" voices together — hearing you at your whiniest will probably elicit a good laugh.