What to Say Instead: 52 Gentle Responses to Tame BIG Moments

Free Download for Moms Who Want to Respond to Big Behaviors and Emotions with Curiosity instead of Frustration

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Does this sound familiar?

👉 You’ve just told your child what they did wrong and why they should care, but it only made everyone feel bad… no heart change.

👉 A meltdown hits and your first instinct is to yell at them to get them to stop exaggerating or making a scene

👉 Or when one kid tattles on their sibling, you dismiss them with “it’s not that big a deal” that the toddler took their toy AGAIN

👉You want cooperation, but everything feels like a power struggle

You’re not alone. Most moms never get trained in how to handle big emotions, defiance, or sibling fights;

yet we’re expected to get it right every day.

What if you could reverse a meltdown in its tracks with just ONE SIMPLE PHRASE?

Imagine having 52 ready-to-use phrases in your pocket or on your fridge. In a moment of stress, you can flip a card and know exactly what to say to:

Calm tantrums without yelling

Turn defiance into cooperation

Handle homework struggles without shaming

Navigate sibling conflicts without constant refereeing

Stop power struggles in the moment

Build everyday connection and trust

You see, here’s the difference in just a simple response.

Judgment sounds like:
❌ “Why would you do that?”
❌ “What’s wrong with you?”
❌ “You never listen.”

Curiosity sounds like:
💡 “What made you choose that?”
💡 “How were you feeling when that happened?”
💡 “What got in the way of listening just now?”

Why curiosity wins:
Judgment shuts kids down with shame. Curiosity opens the door to understanding, problem-solving, and connection. 💛

Meet Your Coach, Amy

Hi, I’m Amy, and helping parents raise kids with respect and connection is my passion. I’ve spent over 15 years working with children, including more than a decade as an elementary teacher and several years supporting kids with autism. I’ve seen firsthand that children thrive when they feel safe, understood, and respected, and parents thrive when they have practical tools and support.

Parenting can feel overwhelming. Unlike teachers, parents aren’t trained for big emotions, meltdowns, or sibling conflicts, leaving many moms frustrated, unsure, or guilty. My goal is to help you respond with curiosity instead of control, guide with calm confidence, and build connection even in the toughest moments.

This flashcard deck gives you 52 ready-to-use phrases to navigate everyday parenting challenges, strengthen your bond with your child, and make your home feel calmer and more connected.

Backed by education and certifications from recognized programs, I’m committed to offering guidance you can trust.

What moms are saying

“It has changed the way we parent and the way we respond to her which makes a huge difference. We’ve got the tools to end the scream spiral and chaos. We’ve got hope for her future.”

LeighAnn

“I now understand the ‘why’ behind my parenting struggles. Amy helped me connect with my child and myself. I recommend her to anyone wanting to grow.”

Parrish

“Amy has given me the tools to become the parent I always wanted to be. This isn’t about perfection — it’s about peace, patience, and knowing how to love my kids through hard moments.”

Kait

“I feel safe, supported, and never judged. Amy gives honest, helpful feedback—both for my growth and my son’s behavior—and makes each session feel like I’m talking to a trusted friend, not just a coach.”

Amy

What’s inside your free flashcard deck

52 ready-to-use, word-for-word responses for tantrums, defiance, homework struggles, sibling conflicts, and everyday connection

Easy “swap this for that” format so you always know what to say

Printable and mobile-friendly — keep them on the fridge or screenshot favorites

Gentle phrases that build cooperation, strengthen trust, and teach emotional skills

Flashcard Challenge!

Got a favorite phrase from the deck? Snap a pic of your flashcards in action (on your counter, taped to the fridge, or even in your hand getting ready for use 🤪) and tag me on Instagram @amy.dooley_parentcoach .

Not a picture person? Just drop me a DM or email with your favorite card + how it worked for your kiddo. 💛

Your ”‘mom win” might be the encouragement another parent needs to try the cards too!

Download Now

Don’t wait

Big feelings don’t wait until you’re ready. The next meltdown, backtalk, or sibling fight will happen today.

And in that heated moment, your brain will go blank - or worse, default to judgment phrases- unless you already have the words in your pocket ready to go.

That’s why now is the time to grab your 52 Curiosity Flashcards.
📌 Because your child is already learning how to respond to emotions (right now).
📌 Because every missed chance to model curiosity teaches them something, too. (and not what you hope)
📌 Because the earlier you start, the sooner calm + connection become your family’s default.

✨ Don’t wait for “someday.” The next big moment could be tonight — and you’ll want the right words ready.

You’ve got this! You don’t need perfection. You just need the right tools in the moment. These flashcards give you 52 of them; practical, gentle, and connection-driven.

Fort Walton Beach, Florida USA

www.theempoweredparent.us