Am I a Big Meanie?

[Mom2Two]

I would have done what you did BUT I would have said what behavior I needed (expectation) and why upfront. So something like "keep the water on the table so we don't waste it and have none left for crafts" Then if he dumped it "oops, no more water for crafts" and then he can go and play.

Telling kids what is expected of them instead of what is not expected of them is always a good way to go about it. Like BlackCat mentioned asking him not to dump is an invitation for some!

I also almost always give a second chance. I allow a few minutes of crying to drive the point home and then ask "would you like another chance?" to which the child will say "yes" and then I give them another chance to prove that they can listen. I get complete compliance100% of the time when I give another chance. It is also a great teaching moment that I trust the kid can make a better choice.

You are so patient! I would do it like this on a good day, but a child like this one can sure wear my nerves thin.

[BumbleBee]

I would've done the same thing. I have a challenging 2.5 year old right now who is, I swear, a genius and she will play me like a fiddle if I let her.

[midaycare]

Thank you everyone, now I don't feel so bad knowing you guys are equally as mean. ::

[daycare]

Thank you everyone, now I don't feel so bad knowing you guys are equally as mean. ::

ahahhahahahahahhhahahaha

[Unregistered]

I would have followed through too. You can paint another day. I'm firm but fair and very fun too! Depending on the child I may give him/her another chance. I'm quite firm tho and they know I mean business. Still I'm very sweet, and loving, encouraging. It's a balancing act.

I understand you were careful and only had a little water in the cup.

He was quick!

I too set up expectations and have drilled it into my head (20 years ago already!) to state what I expect in the positive....I'd say, "Water stays in the cup."

I think you were right there...so I understand, but I make sure I'm sitting down next to a child like this holding the cup.