ROUND TWO
The conversation should have gone like this:
“I’m ready for my ice cream now.”
“You’ll have to finish your dinner first, honey.”
“It’s all cold.”
“We’ll just heat it in the microwave for a few seconds, and it’ll be
good as new.”
“I didn’t like it anyway. I want just a little ice cream.”
“That’s 1.”
“Then I’ll go to bed starving!” (Walks away)
Mom did much better. There were no Little Adult explanations,
and Mother ignored her daughter’s martyrdom.
The Three-Out-of-Four Rule
Let’s return to the case of Picky Pete. Imagine that Peter’s parents sit
down, review the mealtime situation, and come up with a new plan.
Mom and Dad explain the new deal to their son. If Peter eats three out
of four items on his plate, the boy can have his dessert. The serving
sizes will be smaller, and Peter has to at least taste the one thing he
doesn’t choose to eat.
The first meal under the new regime goes well. Even though they
are a bit nervous, both parents avoid any anxious prompting. Peter
finishes his smaller portions of pork, mashed potatoes, and peas.
After tasting it, he forgoes the salad. He gets ice cream for dessert.
After the mealtime overhaul, the first week passes without any
unpleasant incidents. Peter and his parents actually enjoy one
another’s company. The dinner table conversation is spirited and
friendly.
“Pete, how was that movie you saw with your friend?”
“Oh, cool! You guys gotta see it!”
“You really think we’d like it at our advanced ages?”
“Oh, yeah! Let’s go—I’ll go see it again.”