The most exciting pronouncement in a supermarket: ‘And now stop whining!’
And what happens after that?
Recognisable to all parents with young children.
Taking your child to the supermarket can be a challenge.
For a child (who has no concept of money yet), a supermarket is just one big lucky dip. Cleverly done by those supermarket marketers. At your eye level, in the nicest, most attractive colours. There are tasty things everywhere that you can just grab.
Oh no, you can't just take it.
First, please ask nicely: ‘Dad, can I have a sweet?’
Dad is pretending not to hear.
Just asking again: ‘Dad, can I have a sweet?’
Dad's pretending not to hear again.
But Dad will hear it. Because after asking for the fourth time, he says: ‘And now stop whining!’
And if you're unlucky, it's war from that moment on.
Good boy, bad dad.
I've read somewhere that it helps to lie down on the floor, stamping your feet and screaming, just like your child does. The child will likely calm down out of surprise. I've never actually tried it, but it's an option.
You can also just give your child what they're whining for, then you'll be rid of the whining. Provided it fits within your budget, of course.
Most parents do not choose either of these options.
No, they are going to negotiate.
Saying reasonable things.
When all reason has long gone. You should have listened sooner.
This third option is the most entertaining for the onlookers. Although the first one is also very funny.
For all adults who are (partly) still a bit childlike, I have fun toys.
We are going to our classic Cars rent again.
Lock-down proof and driving a classic car is something you do alone, or perhaps with your partner.
There is space for children, but to avoid any fuss, I would arrange a babysitter.
