Putting Theory Into Practice

After a few months of using The 1-1 Parenting Principle with my twin boys, it was put to the test in front of a friend of mine. My boys and I went to at an eating establishment to pick up some food where I bumped into my friend. As I was telling my friend about 1-1, my boys started wrestling, jumping and running around like crazy wildcats. For me, their behavior was out of control. I told my friend to watch 1-1 in action.

This is what I said to my boys in a calm and collected manner:

“The two of you are out of control. I need you to stop wrestling and settle down. I am going to start ‘Counting Minutes’ now.”

My boys actually stopped the very moment I told them I was going to count, and I wasn't even able to start counting. My sons then came to me and held my hands and were quiet and still. I embraced them, patting their heads and gently rubbing their backs with affection.

My friend was very impressed, and I felt good about my stronger relationship with my sons. I didn't need to threaten my children and they weren't put in time-out, grounded or punished in any way.

My boys later giggled and taunted me that I didn't get any minutes. And I pretended I was upset that they won. We make these exchanges a fun game of not letting daddy get more minutes. And THAT is my favorite game!