I always look forward to extended vacations with my children and I think this is because I conveniently forget the fighting that inevitably happens. Don't get me wrong, they play beautifully most of the time, but when the peace talks breakdown and the cease fire crumbles, look out!
The older they get the more challenging it is to restore peace. By the time you listen to his side, her side and determine the truth, it is exhausting. I have tried letting them talk it out, letting them set their own consequences for the next time and I have tried instant banishment to time-out the moment there is the whisper of a battle brewing. In reflection, I have decided to quit my referee job (hence the job posting) as I know sibling squabbles are natural. Instead of intervening, I've decide to play mediator for my offspring. If anything, it will drive them batty and encourage them to move onto peaceful play. Well, until the next fight.
There are only a few days left of the holidays and I am determined to enjoy every moment. I'm retiring my black and white referee jersey and will put some serious thought into how much to charge for my mediation services.
I'll keep you posted as to how my new position turns out.
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