I'm pretty sure being a nanny is akin to being a gangsta. I make deals, push candy like it's crack, and I'm the mob boss. But unlike mobsters and their gang-affiliated friends, I do not "whack" kids for their undesirable behavior. But I do have a tool that, quite possibly, is more terrifying than swimming with the fishes. This is the ultimate form of punishment, the time-out. Although the duration of this disciplinary action is seldom longer than 5 minutes, it's clear that these 5 minutes are pure torture. By the response of the delinquents, you'd think the Godfather himself was accompanying them in their respective corner. It begins with the offense. Whether it be a naughty word or aggravated assault with a deadly Nerf gun, the punishment is initiated. "You may not hit your brother over the head with the Nerf gun, I think it would be best if you had some time to yourself. Please go sit in the corner and take some time out." Then all hell breaks lose. Stomping, crying, whining. This must be a punishment worthy of a mobster.
Next you must "Say hello to my little friend" the ever coveted piece of candy. It's amazing what kids will do these days for a small handful of M&Ms or a licorice. "Jessica, can we have some candy?" "You certainly may, but first things first, the Pokemon cards from the latest battle need to be picked up off of the floor and all Nerf darts returned to their homes inside of the barrel of your machine gun." Don't get me wrong, I don't think bribing is the best way to teach responsibility but sometimes it comes in handy. *Candy should not be used in excess. It causes cavities and other health complications that parents aren't too keen on.* And it's addictive. We've got second graders pushing that stuff on the playground.
I really do enjoy nannying. But I am grateful for a break. And I think my little mobsters are grateful too.
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