For the Child Who Runs Back Inside at the Door

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

What to say

1. Once we’re at the door, we go out. The door closes behind us.

2. Running back feels like the last chance to grab something you need.

3. I hold the door open with my foot and count to three out loud.

4. You get one thing from your room. Then the door closes and we walk to the car.

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.