Appropriate age group(s):
Elementary School

Description of technique:
Your pre-teen daughter wants to buy clothes that make her look like her best friend and her older sister. What can you do besides just saying no? Make a deal and compromise.

Now that still means you should voice your opinion and set your family limits. "You're not a teenager yet and I just don't think that some of this clothing is appropriate for your age and grade level. Let's go shopping together and you can pick out one or two outfits that you really think you must have and the rest of your school clothes we'll pick out together. And remember, we still have to stick to our budget."

It can be very challenging dealing with the "I wants" and "must haves" particularly while staying within your budget. Sit down, talk about the issues and acknowledge her feelings. Then see if you can find a solution together.

When out shopping, try focusing on what looks best on her and compliment her on those items often. Give her some choice in the selection of her wardrobe. After all, she is the one wearing it and you want her to look and feel good about herself.