Just Ask Wag

From Wag's mailbox reader Kerri writes:

My oldest wrote in pen on my chairs at work her name.
Lovely....

So Ask Wag: What kind of punishment does she deserve??? A good ol' beatin or grounding?

Dear Kerri,

While I am a believer there are times a good ol' beating and/or grounding is warranted, I do not think in this instance either should apply.

A child should never be discouraged from writing even if it is only their name they are writing. The ability to write legibly is very important so apply the practice-makes-perfect theory.

However, they must understand that the world is not their canvas and there are proper places for them to paint.

I would suggest a two part punishment.

First, if you have not already cleaned or tried to clean the ink, I would tell her that you want her to try to remove it and show her how. Keep in mind that should be under your direct supervision.

If you have already tried to remove the ink yourself, have her dust your office counters and tables in exchange.

Second, give her a pen and paper and have her write "Mom I am sorry" 25 times. That equals 100 words which is more than she will want to write, but be firm.

Now, this next step is probably the most important part of my advice.

After she completes her punishment you will have a guilt feeling wondering if the punishment was too harsh, so here is what you do.

As soon as she has completed her task, count it to make sure she did the correct number, tell her good job, then you take her to Burger King for an 89 cent ice cream cone.

While just the two of you are enjoying your ice cream, you tell her how nice her writing is, how much you like to see her write, but that as she now knows, chairs are not the proper place to practice. Give her a spiral notebook and encourage her to use it whenever she has the urge to write or draw.

Wag

Another reader has this advice for Kerri;

"Just Ask Wag" comment for Kerri. Put the gloves on your monster and have her clean the chairs with a stain (ink) remover. ~Liana

Thank you Liana for adding your advice for Kerri.


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