Parenting

So, having a 3 year old has made me realize that parenting is definitely no easy tasks. For a while, Elliot was getting a bit out of control. Just down right defiant and rude! It was tough! I just wasn't sure what to do with her and was at my whits end. Nothing was working! I realized that counting to 3 was the dumbest thing I ever started. She needs to listen the first time, not after 3 seconds of thinking about it (and then still not doing it). I feel like this is for her safety and really to help develop a strong character. She needs to know that she is not in control.

Then, yesterday, I had a small revelation-STICKERS! Instead of disciplining all the time (which was NOT working) why not reward the good behavior? I've had a new kid the last day and a half! We have one chart that say "I listened the first time." When ever she obeys and does what she is told the first time she gets a sticker. I've been going a little crazy with the stickers right now, but I want her to know that she is a good girl and that her good behavior is really appreciated. The other paper says "I Disobeyed" and I draw a frowny :-( face on it every time she doesn't listen. Tonight, she was in TEARS because she did not want a frowny face! I don't think the girl has ever cried over a time out or spankin'. I hope this lasts, or that it at least starts a new attitude with all of us. I went out and bought some new stickers today because she gets to choose her sticker from a case. She was so excited.

I also had these charts that I bought over a year ago. One is "The Blessing Chart" and one is the "If...Then Chart." We've taped these under our other papers and read a Bible verse that goes along with the good/bad behavior. She actually sits down by the chart with me and wants to read them. She's memorized Eph. 6:1, "Chidren obey your parents in the Lord for this is right" (except she always says, "Children obey your mother!" HAHA)