When Michael is about to make a decision that is "time out worthy", I often tell him that he needs to "make a choice". This is also something that I say daily to my middle school students. Children need to know that they always have a choice, one might be better than the other, but there's ALWAYS a choice. I think this is important for even two year olds/three year olds to understand, it teaches self determination. For example, when Michael tries to play chase prior to his bath, I tell him (actually, loudly state) that he has a choice. He can either come by the time that I count to three OR I will come pick him up (he is now at the point where he does not like to be picked up). In most situations, he comes by the time I get to two. This happens frequently throughout our day, I won't go through the huge list of examples when this "parenting" (aka...manipulation) tactic is used.
This evening, Josh and I were told TWICE by Michael that we had a choice. While Josh and Michael were slurping down chicken noodle soup for dinner, Michael asked Josh for more toast. Josh told him that he needed to eat more soup before he could have another piece of toast. He then told Josh, "you have a CHOICE, Dad! You have a choice." Michael then proceeded to tell Josh that he would tell his Mom and his Nina, if Josh didn't fork over the toast. I could not help but laugh!
We just might have another attorney in the family... keep the practice running, Granddad for a few more years!! Michael is learning quickly....
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