The first time one of my girls called me ‘mean’ I almost cried. Almost.
Funny how I’m only mean when they don’t get their way.
I asked a few friends if their kids called them the ‘M’ word. I was pleasantly pleased to learn that I’m clearly not alone in this regard. Not by a long shot.
Interestingly enough use of the M word in my house seemed to catch on like wild-fire. Just great. Now I have all 3 of them ganging up on me.
Use of the M word started to really bug me. I finally declared, “I’m not mean, I’m your mother!”
Kids will do just about anything to get their way. It’s the method that continues to change. How we react is what drives whether or not they will do it again. Okay, lesson learned!
Join me in the crusade against the ‘M’ word. I know I’m not alone. When you are called ‘mean’ simply say: “I am not mean, I am your mother”. No other explanation required.
My boring reaction to the M word has seemingly started to lose its sizzle. I havent been called ‘mean’ once all day today.
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About Melissa Potvin
Melissa Potvin is the founder of the Girliemom brand and blog. Melissa has over 15 years working in Information Technology. Her career has spanned Professional Services, Mergers & Acquisitions and Global Operations. Melissa has 3 daughters ages 8, 10 and 12.
Amen! I’m with you all the way! I will definitely start saying that…..I was called “Mean” just today. LOVE it!
I haven;t gotten this yet, but I wouldn’t be surprised if I get it in the future. There seems to be some right of passage in being called mean. I’d say keep up the good work mommy!
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Just feel lucky that you didn’t have me as one of your kids… When I was little I used to tell Aunt Shirley “You’re not my mother… My mother loves me…” But seems she knew all about not giving in and reacting to my tantrums… She would just ignore me… Needless to say, my tantrum phase didn’t last very long… Brava, my wise cousin !… You’re very smart for your years…
Love that! I was upset too the first time I was called mean, but now it empowers me!
Following from Bloggy Moms where I left a comment about this. Great post!
Lisa AKA Mama Finch recently posted..He Said She Said