Even When the Kettle’s Bare

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Some paths are quieter than others—but walking them together makes all the difference. Today reminded me of the quiet weight that comes with being the one others turn to. I spoke with both of my daughters—separately, at different points in the day. One needed advice, the kind only a mother can give when life feels uncertain. The other’s voice held something heavier, and when I asked, she let it spill: relationship strain, financial stress, the kind of ache that’s hard to name out loud. I listened. I offered what I could—words, perspective, a little steadiness. And later, I followed up. Not because I had to, but because I know how it feels to be left holding something alone. They each thanked me. They each made a move forward. And I felt that familiar flicker of peace—the kind that comes from knowing you were able to help. But beneath that peace, there’s a quieter ache. The kind that surfaces when you’re still navigating your own storm, and yet you find yourself pouring from a cup that’...
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The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad

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Course Correction: Turning Tiny Tyrants into Respectful Humans

When a kid smacks their parent like they’re auditioning for an action movie, it’s **time to intervene—fast**. Letting this behavior slide is like handing them a VIP pass to disrespectful habits that will only grow worse. So, how do we correct course before they start thinking they run the show?  

1. The "Immediate Reality Check" Method  

- As soon as the *tiny dictator* raises their hand? **Stop everything.**   

- Firmly state, **“We do NOT hit. That is NOT okay.”**  

- **No negotiation. No long-winded debates.**  

- Follow up with a direct **consequence**—whether it’s losing privileges, time-out, or taking away whatever they were demanding.  

2. The "Find the Root Cause" Strategy

Let’s be real—kids don’t just wake up and decide to throw punches (unless they’re toddlers, because those little wildcards have zero impulse control).  

- **Frustration? Lack of emotional skills? Feeling ignored?** Figure out what’s fueling the behavior.  

- Teach **healthy expression**—words instead of fists, deep breaths instead of battle mode.  

3. The "Zero Tolerance, Zero Reward" Rule

- If they hit **and still get what they want**, congratulations—you’ve just reinforced the behavior.  

- **No rewards. No exceptions.**  

- If they lash out because they wanted a snack? No snack.  

- If they hit because they wanted to avoid bedtime? **Bedtime starts earlier.**  

- Harsh? Maybe. Effective? Absolutely.  

4. The "Model Respect, Demand Respect" Approach

- Kids mirror what they see.  

- If they watch adults yell, react emotionally, or argue over everything, guess what? That’s their blueprint.  

- Teaching calm **but firm discipline** is key—showing **respect in how you correct them** teaches them respect in return.  

5. The "Consistency is King" Rule

- Course correction only works **if it’s enforced every single time**.  

- One moment of **“Eh, I’ll let this slide”** teaches them that sometimes hitting is fine.  

- You wouldn’t let them eat crayons *just this once*, right? (Hopefully.)  

Final Sip of Wisdom

Parenting isn’t about **being their best friend**—it’s about **guiding them into being decent human beings**. Setting boundaries isn’t mean, it’s necessary. And if the only reason they stop hitting is because **Grandma** scares them? Well, maybe it’s time to channel a little of that old-school parental authority yourself.  

And here’s the real secret weapon: *parenting is a lot easier when you remember what you felt at that age.* That frustration when adults ignored you? The need for independence? The overwhelming emotions you didn’t know how to express? When you tap into those childhood memories, it makes discipline more about **teaching** and less about just reacting.  

Enjoy a cup 🫖,

Honey

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