It amazes me at how we interact with these people we call children.

I remember that I wanted to know ‘why’, quite often, when I was a child.  Equally as often I was told ‘no’.  I hit a brick wall where there was no discussion.  I didn’t want to continue with that trait in my relationship with children.  So I almost succumbed to the trap of negotiation with children. 

Somewhere along the way, children realize that they can have control in situations using the art of negotiation.

I was at my niece’s home recently when her children came home from school.  They wanted to an after school snack.  OK, that was good.  Upon being offered a choice between two healthy snacks, her son started negotiating and whining to get the sweet treat he wanted.  His technique was amazing.  He thought that because there were onlookers that he could negotiate and win.  If he could get his mom to fear a tantrum, he would get his way.  He found that his mom had learned that trick.  After the offer of any snack was withdrawn, he saw the error of his ways and complied in a civil tone. 

In an effort to adhere to the newest parenting techniques, we find ourselves debating with people under the age of 18.  We do it all the time.  

When did this start?  I have been under the impression that although being able to express opinions, children live in a ‘dictatorship’.  By this I mean that the parents have responsibility to control the actions of their children and the right to ‘dictate’ the rules when necessary. 

As parents and care givers we must realize that sometimes the answer is “no” and not feel guilty in expressing our responsibility to these under age people we call children.