Conflict Reduction · November 6, 2026 · 17 second read
Use I statements to lower the heat
It is easy to get defensive when talking about parenting hiccups. Try starting with how you feel rather than what the other parent did wrong. For example, say I feel frustrated when I get interrupted during my work time, rather than blaming them. It helps keep the conversation on the solution instead of the frustration.
Try this: Name your own feelings using an I feel phrase before describing the situation objectively.
Source: ZERO TO THREE