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TODAY: Underreact
I think Carrie Contey was the person from whom I first heard this and I think it’s brilliant: When your kids are bugging you, or they’re getting into trouble, or they won’t do what you need them to do, underreact. They’re totally not expecting that. And their reaction may just be to do the thing you need them to do because they are so shocked that you’re not doing what you usually do (yell, freak out, overreact).
I’ve been trying this in our house and it sure does seem to throw my kids. But it’s just enough of a disruption in our normal communication patterns to get everyone to change channels and tune in to what’s going on. And, as parents, that’s what we really want, isn’t it?
As for how this shows gratitude toward others, look at it this way: a happier, easier home life with less yelling and more connecting is something for which we can all be thankful.
lol love the picture! i will try this with my little one. it is a challenge, but a good one!
This is a tough one, isn’t it, Veronica? I spend most of my time looking like the lady on the right. But, when I’m mindful and really think about things before I say them, I realize I say no more than yes and I give my kids grumpy faces more often than I give them loving looks. I’m working hard to change that.
YES! This is such a great tip! I found that in the classroom, especially, a simple raised eyebrow or “I seriously can’t believe you even thought that was worthy of my attention” look was all that was needed to squash unwanted behavior. It also works well in the grocery store for unruly children who don’t belong to you – not that I’ve eeeeever done that! 🙂
Amanda, LOL! I wonder if it ends up working better on kids who aren’t our own? 🙂