In a recent post, self-proclaimed “Strictest Mom Ever,” Lisa Matthews, shared a valuable parenting lesson that resonates even during holiday celebrations. This past 4th of July, while enjoying the festivities, she highlighted the importance of addressing children’s bad behaviors early on—a reminder that parenting is a continuous journey, regardless of the occasion.
In a video that has garnered over 20,000 views, Matthews discusses her eight-year-old son, Ethan, who has begun to show signs of manipulative behavior. “He’s not being malicious,” she stated, “but we need to nip these habits in the bud.” At a gathering, when the kids were indulging in yogurts topped with candy, Ethan expressed his desire to have one. Lisa agreed, but with a stipulation: “You can have the yogurt, but remember, there’s cake for dessert later, and you can’t have both.”
Ethan wisely opted for the cake, but soon after, he approached his mom with a new angle, claiming, “Dad said I could have the yogurt. Is that okay?” This classic “ask Dad when Mom says no” tactic is something many parents are familiar with. Understanding the situation, Lisa knew that allowing him to indulge would undermine her authority, so she seized the moment for a teachable moment.
Pulling Ethan aside, she explained why his behavior was unacceptable. “He wasn’t in trouble,” she clarified, “but he needed to recognize his manipulation, which is often a difficult thing to do.” Despite his visible upset after their conversation, other party guests began to side with Ethan, suggesting that she should just let him have the yogurt. However, as Lisa pointed out, the real issue wasn’t the yogurt but rather the manipulation and the potential bad habits forming.
“It’s not just about the yogurt,” she emphasized. “If we let it slide now, he’ll grow into a teenager who manipulates, and then an adult who does the same.” Parenting can be tough, and while it may seem easier to let small behaviors go, Lisa reminded us that early intervention is crucial. Allowing children to pit one parent against the other is never okay, and it’s important for parents to address these tactics immediately.
Ultimately, Lisa encouraged Ethan to come to her first next time instead of going behind her back. She even allowed him to have a small portion of the yogurt, proving that she isn’t the “meanest mom ever”—she’s just a parent who values teaching important lessons.
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In summary, this holiday season, remember that consistent parenting is key to preventing bad habits in your children. Addressing manipulative behavior early on can lead to healthier relationships and better choices in the future.
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