Golly gee, Denise! I think you outta have Dan read this thread! Everyone is right in the fact that as long as he sides with Lauryn, this will just go on. I remember, as a kid, if we didn't behave, Mom would say, "Wait till your Dad gets home," and we knew we were in trouble then, and Mom wouldn't forget to tell him!
Dan just has to start backing you! Children need structure and discipline and it doesn't work if the parents aren't together on decisions and discipline. They quickly learn how to get the parents arguing and then they disappear and do their thing.
I think the withholding privileges and material things works quite well, but don't threaten with something unless you can carry through with it. It's so hard to withhold something important, but it pays off in the long run. I think you should stop catering to everyone and just take time for yourself. One thing I used to do that would drive my daughter crazy is put on headphones and listen to music, rather than to her. If she got too much in my face, I'd go in the bathroom and lock the door.
I think you and Dan need to have a serious talk. Tell him that if this continues, she will possibly get out of control, because she knows Daddy will stick up for her. Disrespecting you should NOT be allowed! How can we get that through that hard head of his?
If a good talk doesn't help, just let them do the cooking and cleaning as someone else suggested. Pamper yourself and do something special, just for you! I hope things can look up for you. Dan needs to back you up and that will make a world of difference.
I sure am glad my child rearing days are behind me!!! Hugs to you!!! |