Wednesday, September 09, 2009

Can Someone Pass the Parenting Instruction Manual, Please?!

Emily made it through her second day away from Mommy in daycare. I got a good report from her teachers saying that she did really well today. Tyler reported that he did not "hear her screaming" in his classroom, so I'm sure that this is a good sign

This is day 5 with no paci or bottle. We're still in it to win it. We had a bit of a set back this morning when Tyler tried to give her one he found. She was crying and he knew that would calm her, so as he was about to put it in her mouth, Shelby caught him and took it away from him. Of course Emily was NOT a happy camper at this point, but there was nothing else that we could do but put it up and let her tantrum pass.

We've been having problems with Tyler since he's moved into the preschool class. He's been fighting and being mean. It's been very trying for me, although not unexpected. He's full of energy. Most of the time he is not being mean, just rough. He doesn't understand that you just can't go around hitting people or pushing people...especially girls. He tried to skewer a classmate with a stick! Last week he was in trouble two days in a row (Wed & Thurs). To punish him, we made him sit in the living room all evening and was not allowed to play outside, in his room, or with any toys. This seemed to get his attention and we got a good report on Friday.  To reward this good behavior, we had a short play at McDonald's on our way home from school.  

After the long weekend, he must have forgotten the punishment because yesterday when I asked about his behavior, I was told that he was rowdy again. I would much rather be on one of those Vegas vacations rather than discussing with my child's pre-school teacher how mean he is! I really don't know why this behavior has suddenly began. He's been going to this pre-school for two years and other than a few minor incidents, we've not had any problems out of him. When he got home yesterday, he was informed that he was to sit on the couch and watched out the window as his sister played in the back yard. He was not allowed. He was also not allowed to play with any of his toys. He was nothing short of miserable.

I am happy to report that today when I picked him up that we got another good report. We talked to him about the importance of being good in school and the consequences for bad behavior. I am certain that if he's reminded of this every morning (especially on Mondays or Tuesdays after a long holiday!) then we can stay on top of this and hopefully not have to hear how bad he was during his day.

It never ceases to amaze me how trying it can be to raise children.  The differences in their personalities require different parenting techniques and skills with each child.  Although we've had one go through daycare/pre-school in the exact same place as another, we're having different experiences the second go around.  They are all three so different, but I love them all three just the same.  I can't imagine my life without these children.  Although there are times when I just want to throw my hands up and shout "I Quit", those are the times when they will come and put their little arms around my legs and tell me how much they love me or ask if they can crawl in my lap.  This is what being a mommy is all about.  It is full of ups and downs.  The rewards, and learning are endless!

6 comments, add yours here:

Amazing Gracie said...

It isn't easy, honey. I wish I had had some magic potion back then... I look at my girls and wonder how in the world did they become such wonderful women!
I'm sure a lot of moms will be flocking over here to help you out with a bunch of good advice. You'll be fine, like I said. You're right - the rewards are marvelous!
~~~Blessings~~~

Jen Mc said...

AMEN!!!! Working mommies, unite! :D Hang in there.
(visiting via Life with Cheryl)
HUGS!!!!!

maryt/theteach said...

I feel for you, Tisha! I've heard it gets better... :)

Marilyn said...

I remember how hard it was to send Jasmine off to daycare and preschool... I know it's rough but these years pass so quickly. Hang in there.

Twisted Cinderella said...

If you find that manual, could you give me a copy too? ((hugs))

Linda said...

If someone could come up with one of those manuals, they'd not only be on the best-seller list but sitting across from Oprah!

Hang in there, Tisha, it gets better as they get older even though that brings a whole new set of problems with it. Parenting is not for sissies and you're not one so don't worry, you'll be fine (even if stressed a lot!).