Higher, Further, Faster! Captain Marvel's Guide to Taming Tiny Terrans (Without Photon Blasts)

Because I Said So? More Like 'Because I'm Stuck in 1950!'

Alright recruits listen up! Even cosmic heroes need a break from interstellar brawls. Turns out the toughest battles sometimes happen right here on Earth with the miniature humans we call 'children.' And as someone who's faced down the Kree AND Ronan the Accuser let me tell you a toddler tantrum can feel just as daunting. Some 'expert' named Reem Raouda has apparently spent years studying parent child interactions. And guess what? Turns out 'Because I said so' is about as effective as bringing a knife to a photon blast fight. Instead try explaining yourself! I know it sounds crazy but hear me out. "I know you don't like this decision. I'll explain and then we're moving forward." Boom! Respect and leadership all in one sentence. Take it from someone who's led entire fleets – even tiny humans appreciate a little reasoning. It helps them feel respected and reinforces that you're in charge in a calm grounded way.

Threats? We Don't Need No Stinkin' Threats!

Threatening to take away their 'screen time' if they don't eat their veggies? Please! That's just setting yourself up for a full blown defiance off. It's like challenging the entire Nova Corps to a game of intergalactic tag. Instead Raouda suggests: "When you're ready to do [X specific behavior] we can do [X desired activity]." This phrase shifts the power dynamic: It keeps your boundary firm while giving your child agency over when they're ready to meet it. You're not removing the limit — you're removing the struggle. Remember it's about empowering them not turning them into mini soldiers marching to your orders. Even I learned that lesson eventually took me a while to learn to get people to follow me with respect and not just orders.

Tears of Fury? Embrace the Feels!

Okay real talk: Crying happens. A lot. But telling a kid to 'Stop crying. You're fine' is like telling a Skrull to stop shapeshifting – it's just not gonna work. It teaches them their feelings aren't valid. Try this instead: "I see you're really upset. Tell me what's happening." Turns out when a kid feels heard they calm down faster and trust you more. Who knew right? I once tried to suppress my own emotions… ended up nearly destroying an entire planet! So yeah let the little terrans feel their feels.

How Many Times Do I Have To Tell You? (Spoiler: Too Many!)

Instead of launching into a tirade about repetition (trust me I've been there – try explaining the complexities of interdimensional travel to a bunch of civilians) Raouda suggests: "I've asked about this a few times. Help me understand what's making this hard for you." It reframes the situation from blame to problem solving. Maybe they're confused disconnected or just lacking a specific skill. Either way a little understanding goes a long way. After all I had to figure out my own past without knowing my real identity a little understanding and kindness does wonders.

You Know Better Than That! (Do They Though?)

Newsflash: sometimes they don't. And shaming them about it isn't helping anyone. Instead try: "Something's getting in the way of your best self right now. Let's talk about it." It assumes the best in your child and encourages self reflection instead of defensiveness. It sends the message: "I believe in you and I'm here to help." It creates a partnership not a power struggle. And trust me kids are way more likely to cooperate when they feel like they're on your team ask Rhodey about having a good team.

The Real Secret: Be a (Respectful) Superhero!

Here's the bottom line people: It's not about controlling your child's behavior – it's about creating an environment where cooperation feels natural. Respect emotional safety and involvement are key. These phrase shifts are more than just words; they represent a fundamental shift in how we approach parenting. So ditch the threats embrace the empathy and remember: even Captain Marvel has to work on her communication skills. And who knows maybe one day they'll even learn to appreciate your intergalactic adventures... or at least clean their room without being asked 17 times. Now go forth and conquer those tiny terrans with kindness and awesome parenting!