Re: how do you change a default expectation?
I'd just say "starting x day we will no longer be watching tv at y time. That includes the 4:30 Wild Kratts." and then don't turn the tv on.
I don't replace things like that with fun things because the reason I cut them out is because the kids are relying on that external whatever... We might do fun things during that time, but not because I cut out tv.
But do be prepared for backlash. It might not happen immediately, especially if you say that you are going to see how this schedule works. But it will happen if you stick to it. Then it'll go away.
I do agree that if you already are thinking that you'll back down then I'd decide if it's truly important. You are the mother. It's your job to do things for their benefit, even if it turns out that it wasn't. A week of standing up against the fight isn't going to hurt anyone. Then you can evaluate how things are going.
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