For the Child Whose Parent Already Started

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

What to say

1. I already did the shelf. The floor is still yours.

2. Watching me do it is easier than joining in, and I don’t blame you for that.

3. Twelve things are left on the floor. You do six, I do six.

4. Say which six you want and I take the rest.

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.