zenmomma *

>>You know what? I have often counseled other mothers who are overwhelmed
>>and feeling trapped in no-ville that they should find a way to say yes to
>>whatever their kids want at any given moment.>>

Great counselling! :o) And when you start saying yes, you realize how
arbitrary those "no's" really were.

>>When my oldest children were little, Dad would take them for a couple of
>>weeks at a time. (I was single then, and he was giving me a break.) He
>>always reported that they behaved perfectly and were happy and had a good
>>time. They always came back completely centered and content. He said
>>that was because he resolved when my eldest was born to never say "no" to
>>his grandchildren>>

What a cool dad/granndpa! I have a similar experience with one of Casey's
friends. She's so used to tagging along with her mom and big sister's stuff.
She so used to be told no. I just try to let her get what she wants to do at
my house, even if it makes a mess, or uses up supplies, or whatever. This
kid is a doll! Never a moments trouble for me. Helpful, cheerful,
agreeable, flexible. All the things her mom complains about.

Life is good.
~Mary

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Thank you so much for this conversation! I've just had 2 1/2 hours of NO
with my kids and needed to hear your advice...

I'm new to the list and have been reading for a while. My kids just turned 4
and 3 a few weeks ago, my husband and I are both firmly committed to
unschooling. We live in Illinois, so have none of the restrictive laws and
reporting requirements I've been reading about.

I've got to go kiss them and tell them yes before they drift off to sleep.
It's nap time.

Elizabeth


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