Disciplining People Who Look Like You

Do you know what is harder than disciplining another person's child?  Disciplining your own child is very difficult.  I love my kids and when they smile I smile too.  They know that is my weekness. 

When I say to do something or I tell them they should not to do something, they say something that makes me smile and discipline goes out the window.  My husband says that the way I speak to the kids is not very intimidating.  My response is that they are so cute but I am at least I am sticking to my decisions.  I used to give in and let them get away with things. 

For instance, my eldest daughter asked to not go to school today.  I told her no.  She had to go to school.  Then she said that she did not understand why she had to go.  She said that there was only a month or two left of school.  She complained that they were not doing anything.  My response was that her father did not want to go to work but he had to go.  Her response was that at least he made money.  I had no response for that logic.  I am not about to start paying her to go to school.  I feed them and clothe them. 

I said I understood but that my decision was final.  She was not pleased but she went to school. 

My youngest daughter is fond of arguing her point.  She is very persistent.  She also likes to point out that she saw me smile and that I am not serious.  Unfortunately, I do smile and again discipline is out the window.

I have decided not to fight the battle.  Every time I tell them to do something I am going to smile.  It will confuse them but I can stop trying to be stern all the time. 

Can you discipline these faces?