On Rules, Boundaries, and Limitations - Part 1

So the other day we were shopping. And when we finished shopping we all headed out to our car to load up our purchases. And our children. Our youngest daughter (just turned three) has recently graduated -- at her request -- from riding in her stroller or the shopping cart. But there are rules. No playing in the parking lot. No running in the parking lot. That sort of thing.

On this occasion, our three-year old broke the rules. She darted around in a manner far more cavalier than the situation -- being in a parking lot -- required.

So I spoke to her about it.

Here is a transcript of our conversation (I am playing the part of "G"):

G: Are you sorry you broke the rules?
H: I'm very sorry.
G: What are you sorry for?
H: Breaking the rules
G: What rules did you break?
H: Playing in the parking lot.
G: Why is that a rule?
H: Because then I don't get ice cream.



It's so gratifying -- as a parent -- to see these lessons sink in and really take hold. With all the challenges parenting presents, moments like these -- when evidence of the depth of true understanding manifests -- are precious indeed.

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