This is Alpha, the first-born, when he was 2YO.
This is Beta, the second-born, when he was about 2YO.
This is Gamma, the third-born, when he was about 18MO.
Parental Advice
Jul
26
2016
As a parent, I sometimes find that kids respond better to certain things than others.
For instance, if you want them to leave what they’re doing and come to you, you could try saying “Come here”.
But his response time may vary depending on his mood and how interesting he thinks whatever you have for him is.
If you want an instant reaction and have the kids right by your side immediately, try saying aloud but not directly to him: “Cool! Look what I found!”
Of course, you had better have something worth showing. Otherwise you’ll be the parent who cried wolf and they’ll ignore you.
Similarly, no boy can resist going to see what it is when someone says “Ewwww! Gross!” So keep that phrase handy, possibly when you want them to clean something.
The last phrase works best on younger boys, say about ages 4 to 7. It is “On your mark, get set, go!” For example, it is time for dinner and they are not showing much interest in making their way to the kitchen. Go to them, challenge them to a race to the kitchen, then say the magic phrase. I find it’s best to start saying it before they can finish their answer to the challenge. If you can get to the word “Go!” before they have completely processed the request, they can’t help but compete.
Any other good phrases that help get your kids’ attention?
Of course, if your kids are ignoring all your normal commands and requests, you have deeper problems than some fun phrases can fix.
A man found him, and behold, he was wandering in the field; and the man asked him, “What are you looking for?”
Genesis 37:15
