12 Comments
User's avatar
Rob Tourtelot's avatar

This is such wonderful parenting. We got stuck in power struggles during our kids' toddlerhood, and the because-I-said-so style not only doesn't work well, but just leaves everyone feeling disconnected and grumpy--kids and parents both. We got plenty of raised eyebrows and unsolicited comments from our parents when we went down this more collaborative path, but it's so worth it. You and Sam are doing amazing.

Expand full comment
Charlie Bleecker's avatar

You said it, Rob, it makes everyone grumpy lol. It's comforting to hear you took a similar approach and received the raised eyebrows and comments. Thank you so much for sharing!

Expand full comment
Becky Isjwara's avatar

I need to borrow that "take a break" concept because I find that I need it sometimes.

I admire so much on how you and Sam talk to George and Layla!

Expand full comment
Charlie Bleecker's avatar

Thank you, Becky! Sam and I have started to take breaks, too. For real! Lol. Last week Sam was getting worked up, losing his patience, and I asked him (in front of the kids) if he needed to take a break. He said yes and went in the bedroom for a few minutes and came back totally fine. Lol it was amazing.

Expand full comment
Becky Isjwara's avatar

woah, like magic!

Expand full comment
Olufunmi's avatar

Indeed,he was so helpful!😂Kids could be so funny,after taking you round ,he finally wants to know what you think of his actions.🤣

Nice to have you,Charlie.Thanks for sharing.👍

Expand full comment
Charlie Bleecker's avatar

Lol, George is definitely funny. Thanks, Olufunmi!

Expand full comment
Tommy Dixon's avatar

Loved this Charlie :) far from being a parent but talking and reasoning with your child makes a lot more sense to me than asserting control

Expand full comment
Charlie Bleecker's avatar

Thanks, Tommy. I'm glad this resonated with you... things to consider for your potential future maybe. :)

Expand full comment
Emma Dorge's avatar

Can’t wait for more Bleecker Bombs in 2024. I agree your Walls episode has been ringing in my head. Thanks for sharing!

Expand full comment
Charlie Bleecker's avatar

Woohoo! Emma, thanks for reading and listening. I appreciate you. :)

Expand full comment
Ororo Munroe's avatar

" We explain why it’s important to change his diaper. We ask what he needs. We negotiate. The three of us talk and talk and talk until he becomes a willing participant." This sounds like how my grephew (great nephew) is being raised. They use breathwork with him as well, when he gets a little feral. LOL He turned 2 last month and he's just the cutest, smartest (teaching him Spanish--father is Latino--and ASL), funniest little human bean I know. LOL

Expand full comment