I have been far too lenient with my children over the years and now I am paying for it... My philosophy was that the children should have plenty of choices, play a role in decision making on some things, and always allowed them to express their feelings, thoughts, and opinions...
Apparently, I let them have too many choices and freedom of expression... The children are all a little extreme in one way or another...
I have gotten quite tired of the constant whining over wanting to wear sweats out to play in triple digit heat, or "I wanted the blue cup", and of course the "he/she is bothering me"... I usually do tell them that it is the way it is and to deal with it, figure it out, or find a way to work it out...
They used to respond well to that, but now they want to continue the drama, whining, and so on...
I was getting quite upset with my four year old strong willed child and his refusal to give up and move on... Nothing was working with him at all that day-even time out... I was starting to get angry...
Out of nowhere a smile appeared on my face and out of my mouth came "Good day to you sir"... His expression was that of shock... He stopped whining and walked away!!!
My girlfriend did this to her 16 year old and got a similar response...
We have concluded that the children full well understand this phrase means go away now please I have nothing further to say to you and they do not like it in the least... We LOVE it!!!
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Comments: 17
Thank You for posting to Tryingfor3000
That is a great phrase and I'm sure it shocked them more than anything. I will give it a try.
Like you, I have tried to be lenient on my children to some degree. With my oldest who is now out on her own, it led to a lot of problems and a very strained to almost nonexistant relationship. My youngest child pushes the envelope every chance he gets. With my middle child, I must have been a little more strict or he was just more suited to my parenting style. He thinks about calling home and actually tries to help out. Oh well, I guess to each his own.
I will have to try this new phrase on my youngest.