Filter by: Products Articles
Filter by:
Do you get our FREE Magazine?

Attention!

June 15, 2008

Dear No Greater Joy,
I have a question: My biggest problem is that I have 3 children 3, 5, and 7. They all need my attention at the same time, but I cannot stand the noise of everyone talking at once, and I feel like I am going insane, and I end up “freaking out” on everyone. How do you train them…only one at a time? – K

Dear Freaked out lady,
Forget about trying to train them one at a time, but rather train them all at once. When they are in the midst of their group pandemonium, speak with authority, reproving and rebuking them sharply. Demand instant silence, taking control of the fray before you unravel (freak out). Don’t try to distinguish one voice out of the many. Rather, silence everyone and then point to them one at a time, allowing each one his say. If one interrupts, stop. If he persists, tell him he has lost his hearing and make him wait until another day to speak his mind. You are his judge, and it is your courtroom. Pound your gavel and say, “Silence in the courtroom or I will have you carried out.” You get the respect you demand, no more. Take charge. Children will appreciate being heard and knowing that a wise person is in control.
So buck up, Mama. Stop “freaking out,” which basically means you are pitching your own mad fit, and take charge. It is the loving, long-suffering thing mamas have to do. ~ Teresa and Debi

Leave a Reply

3 comments on “Attention!”

  1. Wow I feel so convicted of my sin I feel like you're talking directly to me!!! :o) I have been throwing "grown-up fits" for a while now and am resolving to STOP IT RIGHT NOW!!! Thank you for your constant encouragement! We appreciate you guys so much!

  2. We have been dealing with this same issue with our two children. I can not believe how inefectively I was dealing with them! I too am guilty of freaking out and throwing my own fits! I am so grateful for Christ's forgiveness and help, along with wonderful wisdom and insight from the Pearl's!

    However, I have another question. I can see how this advice will correctly deal with the situation once it has started, however, is there any advice for preventing it alltogether? I feel like my children are displaying some simple immaturity, but there also seems to a root of self-centeredness. Please share with me if I am wrong in my thinking and any further advice you might have. Thank you so much for being such a tremendous resource to parents!