Signs that the Child Has Reached the Limit

Water boils in my kitchen at exactly 212 degrees. It's not a guess. It's time tested and it's consistent. If only my temperament was so reliable there probably wouldn't be a need for this discussion in my life. However, my temperament changes, as does my patience with children and their learning and coping skills. This alone is reason to examine this subject again.

Have you ever noticed some parents have different standards of behavior as far as what is cute and acceptable? I find "enough is enough" takes on a different meaning in public and not only the temperature of your temperament needs to be taken, but those of the people around you. Sound a little confusing? Let's explore.

Recently I was in a casino. I had played a slot machine and tossed enough money away. I went with my husband to restaurant located inside the casino to have dinner. There was a shelf of curio items displayed all around the restaurant. I noticed every few feet there was a little sign that said. "If you or your children break any items considered them purchased". Personally, I am vertically challenged and laughed a little at the thought of a child getting to what was clearly out of my reach and breaking it. When my husband asked what amused me so he pointed out the obvious that had been ignored by me.

"Honey, there wouldn't be signs there if it hadn't been a problem."

It wasn't long until a young family came in with three children. I found myself wondering what three children did while the parents played and finally came to the conclusion that poor Mom had probably been locked up in a hotel room with them most of the day.

I busied myself with the menu and we got our dinner ordered. The waiter was leaving and I saw the youngest child had managed to crawl on the back of the booth and was holding two small glass items from the shelf. I reached 210 degrees and felt like it was time to take action before I hit boiling. I called out "Excuse me, your child has crawled up and has some breakables."

The mother reminded Kayden to be careful and gave me a little wave. Clearly she didn't check my temperature. Clearly I had over stepped my bounds as my husband reminded me. I had to watch the rest of scenario play out in bitter silence.

Of course you know the rest of the story. Enough wasn't enough until items had been broken and the manager was adding the price to the bill. Then all of the sudden Kayden was in deep trouble and not capable of being careful. Enough is enough before anyone hits 212 degrees.

Take cues from those around you to help determine what outsiders may see. Does it always require action? Of course not, although it might be wise to do a double take and reevaluate the situation.

It may be easier to handle at home. You only need to check the temperatures of every one in the room. Since you are familiar with personalities and moods you can adjust "enough is enough" to make sure it's at least two degrees below the boiling point.

"Over simplified?"

"Perhaps."

"Let me know."