Year 5, Day 254

Trying to manage the behaviors of a four-year-old is one of the most insanity-inducing experiences one can endure. Between the screaming, arguing, and general defiance, it feels like every moment is a battle of wills with the least rational human being on Earth. But that's not to say Jaclyn and I always respond well, to … Continue reading Year 5, Day 254 →

Year 5, Day 101

Brain freeze! (Also, the sticker chart continues working like a charm.)

Year 5, Day 79

An update on Miles's sticker chart: it's been working well so far! In fact, this was the first week since he started that Miles was able to earn all of his stickers, which meant that he finally earned the ultimate reward of eternal life ice cream. It's also the first time he's reached the second … Continue reading Year 5, Day 79 →

Year 5, Day 56

Today concluded the first week of Miles's sticker chart, and I'm (relatively) happy to report that he earned all but the last two prizes on his list. Which means we ALL earned Family Movie Night. This week's selection, chosen by Miles, was Looney Tunes: Back in Action (2003). While he didn't earn all of his … Continue reading Year 5, Day 56 →

Year 5, Day 47

Before we left this morning, I took a moment to show Miles his sticker chart and explain how it works. Now, I've seen his eyes light up before -- Christmas morning, for example -- but holy COW was he excited about this. You'd think he'd been waiting his whole life for a sticker chart. Granted, … Continue reading Year 5, Day 47 →

Year 5, Day 46

As reported yesterday, this is the week Miles's defiance has risen to heights tall enough to warrant a strict restructuring of behavior expectations. Thanks to my day job, I have a lot of experience with behavior plans, and I can tell you two things that are universally true. One, kids love stickers. Two -- and … Continue reading Year 5, Day 46 →