Today, I’m setting off to see my daughter in Portland, and I can hardly believe she’s graduated from college and is now navigating the world on her own. As I packed for the trip, I found myself reflecting on her childhood and the swift passage of time. How is she already 22?
Amidst the nostalgia, I recalled a defining moment in my parenting journey—a moment that fills me with pride. When my daughter, Mia, was in first or second grade, we found ourselves in the kitchen after dinner. She kept giggling as she pronounced “Shih Tzu,” relishing the fact that she could cleverly say something cheeky without actually saying it.
After hearing her repeat it a few too many times, I finally said enough.
Me: “Mia, that was funny at first, but it’s time to stop.”
Mia: “Stop what? Saying ‘Shih Tzu’?”
Me: “Yes, it’s time to stop.”
Mia: “So, no more ‘Shih Tzu’?”
As the conversation continued, I felt the tension rise. My older son, Noah, who was two years her senior, was now fully engaged, watching closely as I struggled with my resolve.
Me: “If you say it one more time, you’ll be in bed at 8:30.”
It was in this moment that I realized I had often failed to follow through on similar threats in the past. My children were well aware that they could usually escape consequences, whether it be losing privileges or missing a favorite show.
Mia, still giggling, clearly didn’t believe I would actually enforce my threat. I was torn, knowing that this moment could teach them that actions have repercussions or show them that I was just bluffing.
Suddenly, I noticed Noah giving me a slight nod of encouragement.
Me: “Mia, you’re going to bed at 8:30.”
Mia: “You can’t be serious! I won’t say it again!”
Me: “I mean it. You’ve had your warnings, and you chose to ignore them.”
Mia: (tears streaming down her face) “I can’t believe you’re making me go to bed at 8:30!”
As she ran from the room, I glanced at Noah, who was grinning widely. “Good job, Mom,” he said. “I didn’t think you’d actually do it.”
That night taught us all a vital lesson. I learned that I could stick to my word, and my children realized that their actions had consequences. From that point on, I became a more consistent parent, and my children began to take my words seriously.
Ironically, Mia now works with dogs, specializing in obedience training. When I visit her and she shares stories about her job, she emphasizes the significance of consistency and following through—clearly, the lesson sunk in after all.
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In summary, parenting often involves tough decisions, and follow-through can be a powerful tool in teaching children about consequences. Moments like these shape not just their childhood but their understanding of the world as they grow.