For those of us with children, we know only too well that little disagreements are going to pop up now and then. No big deal.

What is a big deal is when those little disagreements get out-of-control and turn into a full-blown argument. When two people believe strongly in their position run contrary to one another, things can escalate quickly.

In particular, we parents don't want to argue with them over everything--can you imagine how long your day would be if that was a requirement to communication?

Fortunately, I discovered a magic seven words that can take the steam right out of any argument before it begins. If you ask your child to do something, like pick up his toys or make his bed, and the "b-b-b-but" starts forming in his mouth right away. You can deflect any potential argument with "I understand what you are saying. But, I love you too much to argue."

Simple. Effective. The beauty is there is no comeback for those words. Say them and walk away, creating the unspoken understanding that the child will do what he or she was asked and that you will not be baited.