The Stand Off

It has been 2 hours and 45 minutes that Ella has been sitting at the kitchen table.

Let me first explain that I DO NOT make a big deal out of food with either of my children.

We just have a few simple rules regarding meal times:

1) You don't have to like it
2)You have to try it
3) If you decide you don't like it after trying it...no big deal. That said..you are not getting something else to eat. If you are hungry later you can always go back and eat the original meal.

I am not harsh about these rules and do make an effort not to make meals that my kids absolutely hate or give portion sizes that are overwhelming =)

Usually these rules serve us well and meals are not a battle ground around the Hambrick house.

Yes, my kids have gone without eating a meal or two they didn't like...but they certainly never starved to death =)

Update: We are now at the 3 hour mark.

However, when Ella walks up to the table and defiantly says that she doesn't like what we are having for breakfast...then defiantly says that she is not going to eat any of it...

Sigh.

I have to do something.

Hence the 3 hours at the table =)

O child of mine, I love you too much to allow you to behave this way.

___________________________________________

Final Update: A clean plate (and contrite heart) was finally reached at 3 hours and 45 minutes.

"When you are defiantly challenged, win decisively."
-James Dobson

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