This is one of my failures: Sarcasm. What makes us think that by saying…
“I’m so glad you yelled at me – it really makes me want to do what you ask”
that it will stop our children from doing that which we become sarcastic about.
It won’t. Period. So why do we do it? I think it is because it is easier than the alternative: Stopping. Thinking about what is really going on. Sitting down with our child and explaining how their actions made you feel and what they can do better next time for a more appropriate and positive response. That takes a lot of time!
Often I forget that I am teaching – ALWAYS. When I am kind, when I am less than kind, by the words I say, by the words I don’t say. Every moment is a teaching moment. And sarcasm never helps the situation.
- Ally K., Anchorage, AK, USA
