You gotta out think them

Hey B,

I've been talking with your daddy and he tells me that you are talking non stop now. And that it is not just words but sentences. I guess you are learning quickly the power of words. And not just the power of words but how you say them. You probably need pop for a lesson how to use the words for your greatest benefit. Daddy and momba probably don't want you to know these secrets but here goes.

1. It is not just what you sat but how you say it. Like when you get time out you got to learn that "sorry" goes a long way but when you can say it the cutest way you know how then time outs go away quicker. A "sorry" with a sob will work wonders but don't use this one too often or they'll catch on to you. Maybe even add a "please" to the "sorry". You'll know it is working when they turn their backs after you say it. They are trying for you NOT to see them laugh.

2. Speaking of please- it has so much power on parents. When you want that forbidden treat, try saying "cookie-please". They can't resist. WHen you want to go outside and daddy seems too busy, "outside-please", and out you'll go.

3. Now to the fine art of using words. Saying the same word over and over and over will often get you what you want. Most times they'll give in just so you want say the word again. There is a danger here. If you use it and it doesn't seem to work give up and try later. If not you may get time out but if you do get a time out remember, sorry-please with a cute little whimper or snubbing cry. Now real tears with a sorry please will really work but that takes a lot of skill and practice.

4. The skill of using a new word or sentence. You've already got these new words in your mind but next time you have something you want or want to do something special like go to the park, use the new word or sentence and then after daddy and momba make a big deal out of the new word or sentence, then you say "park-please". You've got to learn that words can get them in the agreeing mood.

5. Right now these little tricks can work wonders but as your vocabulary (words) get larger you'll have to resort to using parental mind games. The key is to know that they are trying to use mind games on you. Then you just reverse it on them. Like when daddy uses the "pirate" word to get you to drink your milk. Go ahead and give in and drink the pirate milk and then ask for the "pirate cookie-please". You've got to learn to think on step ahead of them.

Remember words are power and...

pop loves you!!!