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A few weeks ago, I took both boys shopping for new sneakers.
I’m normally able to use the Jedi mind trick on them to influence their choice of shoes.
This time, it didn’t go so well.
They wanted to pick out their own sneakers, which was fine until they didn’t want my opinion.
GASP!
I tried persuading them to choose the sneakers I thought were cool but they both fell in love with ones I thought were…um ugly.
My older son’s are not so bad but my 3-year-old’s, well I’ll let you decided:
Left: 6-year-old’s Right: 3-year-old’s
After trying to convince them for twenty minutes my shoe choice was better, I gave up.
Then I witnessed something while sitting in the shoe aisle, that really changed the way I thought.
Even though my boys are still young, it’s important for them to make their own choices. They are learning and trying to find their way and I feel it’s my job as a mom to help guide them but also give them room to become individuals.
Tell me: do you let your children pick out their own clothes/shoes, etc? How do you allow them to make their own decisions at a young age?
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
I let my kids pick their own shoes – but (and this is important) ONLY if the shoe lady says they fit. We go to the same store each time, and they know my kids. They know what fits and actually sell more than one choice for Mr Double Wide Foot.
If I know my kids can’t make a bad choice I let them have freedom to choose. That works great for “pick some new pj’s from THIS rack” and “pick what color lunchbox you want for under $8.”
When they can make bad choices but aren’t likely too, I sometimes just risk it.
When the bad choice looks tempting, we’ll talk about it up front. Sometimes, they still want to make the bad choice. In those cases, I sometimes have to pull rank and deal with the consequences. That’s when it stinks to be a mom to two strong willed boys.
susan´s last [type] ..How to cure engineering disease with a red shoe
Oh thank you for sharing your experience and tips!
Both of those sneakers are AWESOME and that is coming from a girl that has so many pairs that I really could use another closet for them.
I’m glad you are letting them make some of their own choices. It will benefit all of you in the long run if you show the some trust now.
Kristen´s last [type] ..Body Care Introduction and Giveaway
Yes they are growing on me. Apparently, my hubby told me the bright colored shoes are in because of the Olympics so looks like my boys are one step ahead of me
I couldn’t agree more. I remember many times when my own mother used to try to force me to buy and wear clothes and shoes that I hated, and I was never more miserable than when she dressed me in something I hated. I never want to force my daughter to wear something she doesn’t love just because I like it. I’d much rather let her make her own choices.
Venassa´s last [type] ..20 Things You Probably Don’t Know About Me
Yes, I’m learning to do this too. My boys pick out their own clothes every day, even if they don’t match I let them wear it. Little steps
I actually kinda really like the shoes on the right
I think they’re cute and retro looking!
I think it’s great you’re allowing your children the chance to express their individuality. You’re guiding them but letting them ultimately make their own decisions. Great momma you are!
Charlotte´s last [type] ..Where you invest your love, you invest your life