Not so much about saying “No”, but some things we did when the kids were young that seemed like common sense to us:
- We tend to hit the diner each Sunday after mass. (Hence, the "Weight Loss Buddy" thread ;) ) When my oldest was young, I found a piece of plastic, roughly shower curtain sized, in a baby store. It sits under the high chair and catches all the things that fall. When we left any restaurant, it came with us and was shaken outside. I'm still amazed every single time I see a high chair surrounded by food.
- We also were very big, once the kids were about 3 or so, on having them place their own orders (within reason)-- look the waitress in the eye, say "Please", and ask for what you want. Then we amended as necessary.
- Somehow, I'm not sure how, it's been ingrained in our kids to let us know where they are. I don't ever remember insisting on it, but somehow it's become family culture. If my daughter is going to the diner (see a theme here??) after work, I'll get a text asking if it's OK. If they're going from there to mini golf, another text. I almost never say no, but I love the fact that the kids let us know where they are and who they're with. And when I do say no, it's respected.
I’m very very lucky in my kids.