Like all families we have our little routine at night.
We have supper, the kids that eat enough food get a ‘snack’ (a token, mostly little rice-cakes), we wander down the passage to brush teeth and then congregate in Mignon and Isabel’s room where either Etienne or myself lie on the floor with the kids and read stories.
Story-time is mostly a team sport. Everyone participates loudly and calls out animal names, numbers and letters whilst at least one child is jumping on the defenseless reader. Usually with knees to the kidneys.
But before we get to reading time we have to survive The Brushing of The Teeth. I hate The Brushing of The Teeth. This is not a team sport at all. It usually requires much pleading and threatening before there is any participation whatsoever.
Take tonight for example:
Daniel refused to brush teeth. Deep down I know it was a ploy for attention which I was just not able to give him at that very moment as I was trying to get the girls’ teeth brushed and get them sorted out. So I put my foot down and did the whole “If you don’t come and brush your teeth this very minute you will not get a story”-thing. Which you probably know is like playing chicken with a truck. And once those words come out of your mouth there’s almost no way of changing your mind without looking like a total wuss and inconsistent parent.
So I did what any Parent would do: I stubbornly stuck to my guns in the vain hope to retain some dignity. Which ended with Daniel crying in his room because he couldn’t have a story and my heart breaking just a little.
I did go in and have a cuddle and a chat, but there was no story. I explained why and reassured him how much he is loved, but I still feel like the Big Bad Wolf.
But did I do the right thing? Was I too harsh?
I think you did the right thing. They have to learn at some stage. Also the minute you show any weakness they pounce and next thing you know you are missing limbs and crying in a dark corner somewhere… 😉
P.s. I snorted out loud at the ‘chicken with a truck’ comment
I always battle to get the balance between wuss and too strict, thanks for the support!
I think you handled it brilliantly. I would have done pretty much the same, and have before too… I agree with Gina, you need to stick it out, so they know you’re serious and mean it. Even if it makes you feel like a real meanie.
I think it was good that you discussed the situation with him afterwards. That will help him understand the whole concept of actions vs reactions/consequences and I think that is a vital life skill (for anyone, no matter the age).
xxxxxxx
Good point, thanks so much!
Gasp… I think I am a serial strict parent!!
You crack me up! You are a great parent 🙂
We have done this – well admittedly David is better and follow through than I am *blush*
You did well!
No, you did the right thing. We also have this war – almost every night. Gasp! We are not alone!