MARK PROBERT On (24 Dec 96) was overheard to say to JEFF RICHTER
 MP> Let me suggest "choosing" as an alternative. It teaches cause and
 MP> effect. First rule here is that YOU must keep it simple. You want your
 MP> child to do something. Give your child a choice of doing that OR
 MP> something that you know they do not want to do.
 I'll second that...it takes a while for the concept to "sink in" but
 once my son got it ... he knew/knows.
 MP> Rule two is consistency. If you give them the choice, then they get
 MP> what they chose every single time.
 Add (sic) to that that choices given also have to be something that
 the choice giver is prepared to follow through on RIGHT NOW - no
 delayed gratification or disciplinary action.  Immediacy is
 paramount!
 MP> It is not easy. You have to change your habits. But it is worth it.
 That's almost the hardest part of the deal ... changing our habits in
 applying "rules" that worked with the two oldest but never had a
 chance with the youngest...
 MP> But, rule three is where you have the hardest time. PATIENCE. Lots
 MP> of patience.
 THAT'S the hardest part ... digging down to pull up another second,
 minute, 1/2 hour of patience when the primal urge is to throw the
 little bugger off the nearest tall building.
... You can't scare me.  I have children.
--- PPoint 2.02
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