Manipulative Mom

I've recently discovered one of my flaws as a Mom.  I actually discover these all the time. This one I discovered by listening to my children talking and hearing echoes of what I say.

I hear my children say things like this: "If you don't give me that toy, I'm never going to play with you ever again!" Or "If you don't play with me right now, I'll never ever let you play with my toys again." It drives me crazy. I don't like my children manipulating each other into having to play a certain game or do something.

Then I heard myself the other day. "If you guys are going to be obnoxious and disobedient at the grocery store like this, I'm never going to take you grocery shopping with me again."

Ouch. It's one thing to hear your children repeat the way you say things that are funny. It's another to hear them say something that you know you shouldn't be saying. So, I'm trying to watch my words more carefully and find better ways to get my children to do/not do things. I'm trying to be more positive/motivating in getting them to do/not do things. I know manipulation like this is wrong. Let's hope I can change my ways and be a better example for my kids.

The Tantrum

I have a 3 year old who is the cutest, sweetest thing ever. Except when she's not.  When I try to explain to people that she has a temper and can be a screamer, sometimes they just give me a blank look as if to say "I can't imagine her being like that". Well, the other day I took a video of her screaming. I know it probably wasn't the kindest mom moment, but she wasn't hurt, she was just throwing a fit. I find it entertaining to watch. Please don't call child protective services on me. :)