When children ask why?

Children ask why for lots of reasons but mostly because they want to know something.  They want to learn.
Yes some children ask why when they are trying to avoid doing something or delay doing something etc...this is all part of them learning how to manipulate situations.  Manipulation is not always bad ..it is a child trying to learn how to get their needs or desires met and requires thinking.  So good at least their thinking.  Problem is regardless of their intentions they still must learn to be responsible and we the parents are still smarter ...or at least I hope so. ha

So parents just give them an answer or ask them what they think.  Especially while they are teenagers since they know everything while they are teens.  Ask them to explain the question at hand to you.  If they ask why they have to mow the lawn, you can respond with " Well lets think, if you can mow the lawn then what privilege should you get for being such a responsible member of the family? or if you can't or don't want to mow the lawn then I will have to do it and then unfortunately I will not have time to take you to the mall on saturday." mmmm.  If you question their questions, they will get tired of that approach too and stop asking so much. Or if you make too much sense and basically outsmart them, then they will find it easier just to do what they need to do.  Yes parenting requires patience,  creativity, planning, and lots of other skills but the rewards of your efforts will be wonderful.  Parenting will be easier and your children will learn so much from you.

Make sense.  Offer choices.  Be creative. Be humorous.  Just stay away from the negativity it is detrimental always!