Gavin is already struggling today. He’s not been listening and has already had a meltdown this morning.
However, Lizze put her foot down and called him out. She said she was tired of the drama and that he had three seconds to stop before he had oatmeal until Thursday morning. He kept freaking out and so she counted.
Wouldn’t you know it, he stopped before she reached 3. Tell me that’s not control.
Honestly, it’s upsets me even more that he can stop this whenever he wants. It means that he’s doing this on purpose. Regardless of the impact on his family, he chooses to do this, not only to himself but us as well. That bothers me.
I realize that he’s likely more prone to meltdowns but still this is pretty messed up. I don’t know what his motives are but I know that the meltdowns are a willful act and an act that is impacting every person in this house.
The only thing we can do is hold him accountable and stand firm and with resolve.
Honestly, I feel really bad that we keep having to hold him accountable but he has the power to stop this whenever he wants. He just chooses to be violent and aggressive instead. You would think he would learn by now that these tactics do not work. However, he simply continues to escalate in an attempt to get his way.
My biggest concern going forward is, how far is he willing to take this? I mean, right know and for the foreseeable future, I could easily overpower him. What happens when can’t?
Deep down, (sometimes REEEEALLY deep!) kids WANT and NEED to be held accountable for their actions, and to have predictable consequences. And on SOME level, his meltdowns must be serving a purpose to him. The tough part for us is figuring out how we are inadvertently reinforcing the maladaptive behaviour in our kids. Thank goodness Lizzie found a currency that he values enough to stop the theatrics. Hopefully it continues to work long enough for you to find the next one. Good luck, and stay strong!