- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- preschoolers today articles
- preschoolers today q&a
- children today articles
- children today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Dog Doo To Do
An excerpt from: Hidden Messages: What Our Words and Actions Are Really Telling Our Children
By Elizabeth Pantley
"Dad! I'm home!" Melody announced her arrival from school in the typical way. "Where are you?"
"In my office, Mel," Kevin answered. She ambled in, knowing she'd get a hug, a smile, and an inquiry about her day. After they exchanged greetings and Melody told him about her day at school, she turned to leave the room. Kevin stopped her. "Mel? Before you go out to play, would you mind picking up the dog doo in the yard? You know you're suppose to do it in the morning before you leave."
Melody wrinkled her nose. "Sorry, Daddy. I forgot. I'll do it."
A while later, Kevin finished his work. As he entered the kitchen to start dinner, he spotted Melody out on the swing set. He also spotted the various brown lumps decorating his lawn. Kevin opened the window and called out to remind his daughter, "Melody! Don't forget to pick up the dog doo!"
"OK!" she answered back cheerfully.
Soon after, Kevin called Melody for dinner. "What do you say we eat outside? It's really nice out." As the two of them toted their food out to the picnic table, Kevin had to sidestep several doggie deposits. "Mel, this is really gross. I wish you'd get it picked up."
"I'll do it right after dinner. Promise." Melody looked contrite, but her Dad looked unconvinced.
Dad and daughter enjoyed a very pleasant dinner, despite the canine ambiance, catching up on the day's news and tossing around ideas for the upcoming weekend. As soon as they'd cleared the picnic table and tidied up the kitchen, Melody gathered up her homework and began studying diligently for her math test.