Podcast Episode 353: Your House is Not a Democracy: Finding the Sweet Spot Between Collaboration and Boundaries (Part 1)
Ever feel like “Because I said so!” should be enough to make your kids listen—but somehow, it never is? If you’re exhausted from repeating yourself a hundred times a day, you’re not alone. Learning how to set boundaries with kids is one of the hardest parts of parenting, especially when they push back at every turn. You want to be firm but fair, but somehow, every decision turns into an argument, and you’re left feeling drained, frustrated, and second-guessing yourself.
The key to how to set boundaries with kids isn’t about controlling every decision or giving in just to keep the peace. It’s about finding the sweet spot between structure and flexibility—so your kids respect the rules without constant power struggles. The truth is, “Because I said so” often backfires, and if you’re relying on it to get compliance, you may actually be making things harder for yourself. When kids feel like they have no say, they resist even more. But when boundaries are set the right way, they feel respected—and they’re much more likely to listen.
So how do you actually do it? It’s often easier said than done, UNLESS you have experts here to help you do it (which you do!). Understanding how to set boundaries with kids the right way starts with a simple mindset shift that changes everything. It’s not about being the “bad guy” or letting kids walk all over you—it’s about setting limits in a way that feels clear, fair, and enforceable. But there’s one common mistake that can sabotage the whole process before you even start, and most parents don’t even realize they’re doing it.Curious what it is? You’ll have to listen to find out.
Hit play now and start setting boundaries that actually work!

In this episode of the No Guilt Mom podcast you’ll learn:
- How to find the balance between collaboration and boundaries in parenting.
- Why saying ‘Because I said so!’ doesn’t actually work—and what to say instead.
- How to use the ‘Come Together, Let It Go, and I Want It That Way’ method to handle discipline.
- Ways to encourage kids to respect rules without constant power struggles.
- How to stop feeling guilty about enforcing boundaries that protect your sanity and your child’s well-being.
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