With Children Like These...

La, la, la...I can't hear you! My fingers are in my ears! I'm not listening!

Part III of 1-2-3 Magic has me a little freaked. See, I've been so focused on the here and now (tantrums and hitting) that I've completely ignored what's to come. Children can be sassy, back-talking, hooligans!

Yes, I already knew this, thankyouverymuch. It's just that I was blocking it out. Deleting it from my brain files.

This section of the book focused on the different methods our little darlings use to test and manipulate us. Apparently, there are six different ways including Badgering, Temper (Intimidation), Threat, Martyrdom, Butter Up, and Physical Tactics. Children use what works, meaning what has been successful in getting them what they want in the past. They also use the tactics that "get to" us. This is where the whole "no talking/no emotion" rule really comes into play.

Dr. Phelan explained that this testing and manipulation can be managed using the counting method. He warned us parents to expect our children to be very savvy and switch their usual tactics on us when they aren't getting their way. Oh, I can't wait.

There was also a chapter on how to deal with more serious offenses like lying, stealing, property damage, or even smoking. I could hardly read this chapter without developing a severe case of non-pregnancy related heartburn. Dr. Phelan did say that not all parents would have to deal with these sorts of things and I've got every finger, toe, and hair crossed, praying that I'm one of those parents.

This parenting business is relentless. I guess I should thank Kristen over at The Mom Trap for suggesting this book and reminding me of all the joys that await!