The Daddy Complex

Threatening Better: An Update

For a while now, I’ve been using my ploy of placing a row of toys on the dresser at night. While going though the bedtime routine, I tell the boys if they get out of bed or otherwise misbehave after I leave the room, one or two of the toys will be given away.

I’m going to go ahead and call this tactic a smashing success.

Since I started doing this bedtime threat, I’ve only “thrown away” three toys. They’re actually out of sight on a high shelf above the fridge, but whatever. We’re now at the point where I only mention the toys on the dresser once during the bedtime routine (and honestly, I don’t think I even need to do that).

I won’t say we don’t have bedtime battles. Getting their pajamas on is still like storming the beach at Normandy. But, once they’re in bed, they stay there unless it’s an emergency.

Did you see what I just wrote? They. Stay. In. Bed.

I’ll be submitting my name for a Congressional Medal of Valor now. That’s appropriate, right?

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Notes

  1. electradaddy said: The real tragedy…even as an adult I’m too short to see or reach what’s on the shelf above the fridge. I could stop by your house & you could hide all my stuff on that shelf & I’d never know. Next life I’m coming back as a tall dude.
  2. somepage said: that’s outrageous!
  3. theramblingark said: Completely appropriate.
  4. aunit said: have twin girls.i’m going thru the same shit. all the stops. thirsty. potty.have to tell mommy something.have to get something.hear it all every night.i’m trying ur routine tonight.if it works-promise you, i’m sending u a 6pack.
  5. ladyofleisuredc said: dayum, you’re good! Dem two lil boys gat nuffin’ on you!
  6. thedaddycomplex posted this