Permalink Reply by nat on July 29, 2009 at 12:07pm
Hi guys.... my son is 8 now and this has been the issue that I've dealt with all the time till now!
Kids at this age thought that they are big enough to be themselves. I think you should set up rules in your house while let them express what they want under the rules that you both agreed. It helps children learn to fit themselves easily in the new environment.
And 'PATIENCE' is the key word that you have to keep in mind that you must be consistent in what you are doing now. In this case you want her to be in bed the latest at 8.00 PM. If she insists to stay late till 8.30 PM., then talk to her about the rules that both of you agree with. And you have to tell her the consequence of it before you let her decide if she wants to stay late or not. If she insists to stay late and can't get up early in the morning as promise, my suggestion is you have to take away what she cares the most at that time. For example, cut down her play time or take away her loved toys for..... days.
In my case, it works like magic! Just try it in nicer way..... you are her mommy and you know her the best!