So there's been some talk as to inappropriate-ness of using Santa Claus as a disciplinary method, or more accurately, as a bribe to obtain good behaviour from the mischievous elves in our homes. Parenting experts are shaking their heads as the scads of parents out there who are threatening the naughty list and lumps of coal. Children should not need such threats, real or imaginary, to behave and toe the line. If parents are resorting to calling Santa and telling him to cancel the stocking stuffers, then the parents have been neglectful parents from the start. As babes in the crib, we should have laid down the law and commanded respect and obedience from these critters long ago. Even Supernanny Jo would agree that having an imaginary enforcer, like Santa Claus or the Easter Bunny who may withhold treats, is a big no-no in her books. Why are the children more willing to behave for someone other than their parents? Because the parents have lost complete control over their kids.
Well...correct or not in the world of parenting experts, having Santa as an enforcer works. After all, "he knows when you've been bad or good". After viewing several holiday movies, my kids are convinced there does exist a naughty list and a nice list. They've also learned that Santa will visit their home, but that doesn't mean all the stockings will get filled. Nothing gets Ceilidh to finish her meal faster than a call to the North Pole. The threat of lumps of coal and an empty tree will guarantee a stop to the tattling, pinching, and pushing. (Although the whining is still a problem.) I'm not above bribing my kids to coerce some cooperation from them.
Hey, if it worked for our parents, why shouldn't it work for us?
And on that note, a Merry Christmas to all!
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