For the Child Who Wants Food Right After Brushing

Four lines you can say out loud tonight. Word for word. Free to save.

What to say

1. Brushing is done at seven thirty, and the kitchen closes right after it.

2. Clean mouth, empty stomach. Wanting food the second the brush is out is a real thing.

3. Water, then half a banana at the table, cut in pieces, and nothing after eight.

4. You put your plate in the sink and pick tomorrow’s breakfast. That’s the last choice tonight.

When to use it

This is for the moment it actually goes wrong — not the calm version you rehearse in the car. Pick one line. Say it once. Then stop talking and wait three seconds. If they push back, repeat the same line, not a new one. Say the same thing for five nights before you decide it doesn't work.