Introducing, Opposite Day

April 1, 2013

Written by Marykate O’Malley, mother of three wonderfuls, Gladwyne, PA

Photograph courtesy of Rachel McGinn Photography

Every Wednesday is opposite day in our house, a tradition started by youngest last year. So for example, you will hear, “Mom I do not love you”. And maybe someone will say to you, “I don’t want to play outside”. It is up to you to remember, allllll day, that it is opposite day. And if you forget, you will inevitably here, “Mom! It’s opposite day!” Ah, how could I forget, of course, it’s Wednesday.

I take no credit for this brilliant idea and the great benefits. One example, last year when my daughter was younger, it helped to get the concepts of opposites down – hot, cold, happy, sad. And I love that when I tell my children, “do not eat that carrot” they will eat a plateful at lightening speed. Another favorite – “whatever you do, do not brush your teeth and get into your pajamas”. Record breaking, flash of light and they are ready for bed. “Do not, under any circumstance, put on your jackets and get ready for the bus”. Again, ready and out the door, record time.

On occasion, we will have breakfast for dinner. An omelet with whole wheat toast is so satisfying and easy to make. Thankfully, no has clued into dessert before dinner, something I would need to veto.

Has anyone tried this technique? It didnt start out this way but the reverse phsycology has not worked in my favor, not at all. Gotcha!

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Category: Brilliant, Random and Fun

4 Comments »

Anne Schenendorf
on April 2, 2013 1:11 pm
Ah, Opposite Day. Brilliant. I could have used this as a teacher- ehat ever you do, nobody share… Right now though, as a mom, sitting with one teo year old sleeping and the other not napping, it is a beacon of hope for me. Whatever you do,nobody nap at the same time… Ah, hope…
Anne Schenendorf
on April 2, 2013 1:14 pm
Lol, I just reread this and now I think I could use a nap. Whatever you do, don’t proofread what you write…
Heidi Farmer
on April 2, 2013 4:49 pm
Ha! Anne! That’s hilarious.
Marykate Wurster
on April 3, 2013 8:33 pm
Anne – I love! You should nap with them – when they are napping together – you earned it Momma! XXOO