MEAN MOM

MomsBlogging is having a contest for who is the meanest mom! :) I think this contest is really funny, because in a way, we as moms are all mean (in our children's eyes). All entries must be in by October 31st at midnight EST and she will announce the winner on Friday, November 3rd.

I think I am the meanest mom, because I make my children take a "Scout size" bite of everything I make. I don't like the, "I don't like it" statement when they haven't even tasted it. I mean really, it could be the best thing they ever tasted...they should at least try it, right? I will not make them finish what is on their plates, but if they dish it up themselves, then I will. They need to control what is put on the plate. They always have the option to get more if they want. This is funny, because sometimes Nathaniel will make 3-4 trips.

If the kids don't eat their supper, they aren't allowed to have ice cream for a snack later. Our family usually has ice cream at night...so this is a treat. Sometimes I get the crying for ice cream, but I just say, "Sorry, you didn't eat your supper."

My son is great about forgetting to put his socks on in the morning (school days) and I have told him many times that the socks are included with getting dressed. Well, he had a new play station game for his birthday, and he was really excited to play it the next day. I had made a rule that he will have play station taken away if he forgot his socks. Well, what do you think happened? Yes, he forgot, and I felt bad about taking it away...but I have to follow through.

I make my toddler take his naps, when he fights the sleeping some days, but he needs a nap (and I need a break) :)

I make my kids wear coats when it is chilly outside, and hats on their heads. I make my kids go to bed almost the same time every night! I make my son study his spelling words everyday (spelling isn't his strong point) and do reading everyday. I make our children clean up their toys. I make our kids clear their dishes when done eating (starting at age 2). I give them chores to do, and require daily duties to be done. I teach my kids how to make their own meals now and then. I can be a slave driver at times with getting the cleaning tasks completed.

I am a mean mom because I care, and I want our children to grow up to be responsible. I want them to have life skills before they move out...or I kick them out! :)