Dear Annie: I’m writing to “Tired Mom” about the situation with her and her best friend’s toddler girls not getting along. As a teacher who worked with little ones for many years, I found that it works better when you correct with a positive instead of a negative.

Instead of saying, “We don’t hit,” say, “Hands are for helping, not hurting.” Also, if possible, get the child involved — “Repeat after me, ‘Hands are for helping, not hurting.’” I hope this helps. — Pre-K Teacher

Dear Pre-K Teacher: Thank you for your letter! I hope it resonates with others the way it did with me. This is a great reminder of how important our words are and that even the smallest shifts can go a long way — especially with our kiddos.

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“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].