We parents all have our firm set of rules which we expect our children to abide by. Setting boundaries are essential right from the beginning of childhood to avoid any tantrums, fall outs or set backs as our kids get older. They could be as basic as washing hands before eating or no access to TV or tech during school week except for school related projects of course.
Setting rules keeps the house in order, the kids behavior in check and aligned expectations. But, it does not mean that an occasional misbehavior would mean a household meltdown. Every now and then we can make exceptions. Like –
Today, being Wednesday mid-week, you can watch an hour of Asterix and Obelix.
By providing surprised exceptions the kids get that unexpected feeling of euphoria. When my son asks why, I just say 0
Just because. I think you deserve a break from your routine.
Just like an employee being treated by his/her slave-driver boss to a no strings-attached day-off, the surprise you give to your kids out of that unexpected break re-inspires their spirit.
Go ahead and try it! ♥
The Grape Vine 