3. Empathize With Them
When your child is whining, let them know that you understand they are having a hard time. If they are begging for a toy in the store instead of saying “Too bad, life is hard sometimes,” say things like, “I realize you are sad because you can’t have that toy right now, but maybe we can add it to your birthday list this year.” Make sure to express to them that you understand they are sad or angry so they know you are compassionate towards their feelings, and then suggest ways that they can still get what they want, but in a different way.