116 The Explosive ChildMother: I might have an idea. Would you like to
hear it?
Davis: Fine!
Mother: Can you take the Legos with you and you
can work on your Legos while your brother is at his
swim lesson?
Davis: The pieces will break apart. I don’t want to go.
Mother: I understand that you don’t want to go. I’m
not saying you have to take your swim lesson. But
I can’t leave you home alone. The only way I can
think of to work this out is for you to come with me
and bring the Legos along. If you have a different
idea, I’m happy to listen.
Davis: [no response]
Mother: What do you think?
Alden (back from retrieving the purse): I’m going to
be late!
Davis, to his brother: SHUT UP, JERK!
Alden: No, you shut up!
Mother, to Alden: Alden, I want you to go wait for
me by the front door. Now!
Alden: He told me to shut up!
Mother: I heard what he told you. It wasn’t very nice.
Now go wait for me by the front door.
Mother, to Davis: Davis, the only way I can think of to
work this out is for you to bring the Legos with you
while your brother is at his swim lesson. If you can
think of other solutions, I’m happy to listen.