Erma Bombeck knew what she was talking about.
Just when I wonder if the sign of the devil may really be somewhere on his body -- when he screams at the top of his lungs, and talks back, and he literally shakes with anger -- that's when this quote comes in handy.
First, I remember that beating him isn't the answer. I take a time out or do a little yoga breathing or whatever.
Second, I think back to his sleep pattern. Did he nap? (not any more) Did he go to bed late? Did we do a lot in the morning?
Third, I determine the approach. When I push, he pushes harder. When he's tired -- which is usually the problem -- I need to get him to relax and quiet down. Sometimes, he'll just fall asleep in my arms. If he's not tired, I prepare for a time out. That equals three minutes of top-of-lung-screaming and snot blowing and head slamming. By the end of three minutes, he's pretty tired out and ready to give in.
And when I just don't know what to do, I need to remember what Bombeck said. He's needing love and just doesn't know how to say it. I guess there are a lot of adults like that too.
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