Now of course, some kids really do need a light touch. Some kids are very sensitive, and need all the hugs and kisses after being told that they can’t play with the Ming Dynasty vase or pull their sister’s hair. If that’s your kid—fine.
That’s not any of my children. At least, not once they passed about a year old. My children do not listen if I “sweetie pie” them while saying no.
That does not, of course, mean that I yell to communicate my displeasure. (Not on purpose, anyway.) The goal is to be brisk, matter-of-fact, no-nonsense.
Mary Poppins, anyone?
“It’s clean up time, spit-spot!”
And then, if they demur, by running away or ignoring or throwing a temper tantrum, they—or the thing causing the mischief—go(es) into time out.
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