Do you have a toddler who’s favorite word is no? Do they blurt it out as a response to any question you ask or request you make? While it may be frustrating and slow things down for you, toddler learning to say ‘no’ is simply learning to exercise the newfound autonomy and independence.
While it might be tempting to simply rule over them and say that they cannot say no to you, help them develop their boundaries and learn to be more open to other activities with these techniques.

Compromise.

Sometimes an activity just captures a child’s attention like no other. If the child is really enjoying doing something, instead of abruptly ending the activity, give them an extension instead. This lets the child know they can only do the activity for the next set amount of time before they have to move on to another activity. This gives them enough time to process moving on to another activity so that they will do so without defiance or protest that usually is displayed through tantrums.

Give choices

Children can definitely be stubborn when it comes to what they want to do. But fortunately, they also have shorter attention spans. So when moving from one activity to another, try to give them options on how they’ll move on. For example, if a child refuses to move away from the sandbox in time to get their lunch, you may ask the child whether they’d want to skip or jump all the way to the lunchroom.

This provides them an option and some semblance of control moving from one activity to another. This transitional activity also allows the child to move to another fun activity instead of simply ending another he never wants to end.

Refrain from using a ‘yes-or-no’ question.

As children learn to say ‘no,’ it usually becomes their default answer to ‘yes-or-no’ questions. So instead of asking them whether they want to do something which can be answered by ‘no’, rephrase the question into a command, reminder, or request.
Instead of asking if they want to wash their hands, say it’s time for them to wash their hands.

Reframe the situation.

Instead of telling children they cannot say no, explain to them at their level of understanding why they have to do a certain task or activity. This way, the child learns the reasons and comes to see it in a different light.

Ask why they’re saying no.

If the child is old enough to express themselves more eloquently, ask them why they’re saying no. It will give you insight into their internal feelings or thinking about the situation. Or you may ask them what they prefer doing instead.

One thing early childhood educators should avoid is telling children they cannot say no because the teacher is the adult or authority figure. One must remember that young children from ages 2-5 start learning independence and autonomy by saying ‘no’.
At this ‘no’ stage, young children are trying to figure out their boundaries, what they can and cannot do and exploring until they can exercise their newly acquired independence.
If a child is taught they cannot say no to an adult or authority figure, it can open them up to potential abuse and

With these techniques, teach your toddler to be obedient and compliant but not meek and submissive. Learning to assert oneself and their feelings and thinking helps them develop into an independent and strong adult who knows how to communicate properly instead of resorting to being defiant, if not untrusting.