We had an instance this morning that I thought perfectly exemplified our choice and consequence we do with our kids.
I got up to make some breakfast and my husband was already in the kitchen getting himself a bowl of cereal. The 3 year old hopped up and asked for some cereal. I told him, “I’m fixing to make eggs and toast. Would you like some cereal, or would you like eggs and toast?” He chose a bowl of cereal. So my husband gave him some and I made eggs for myself and the 1 year old. But when the younger and I were eating the 3 year old decided he wanted my breakfast. He tried taking Bubba’s plate. “But you chose to have cereal for breakfast” I told him.
He had the choice of cereal or eggs, and he chose to have cereal. Even after he changed his mind, he still had cereal for breakfast. He ate and he’s happily playing through his day. Nobody ever raised their voice, nobody screamed, nobody was spanked or disciplined. It was a calm interaction, and a learning experience.
Because we’re trying to teach him to make a decision, be confident in his decisions, and to handle the consequences of his decisions. (And yes, a 3 year old can begin to understand this concept) Right now, its little things, like eating the cereal he chose and not being able to swap with Bubba mid breakfast because he thought Bubba’s eggs looked good. But hopefully we are preparing him for future big decisions.