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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]Ever since my child turned 5 (a few months ago) we have had an issue with daily power struggles, mainly revolving around food, the TV, and playtime.  I'd say we have one of these power struggles about 4-5 times per day.

Here are some examples of the daily occurances:

Around food:

Me:  It's dinner time.  We're having food A, food B, and food C.  I know you love food A and B.  Please come to the table.

Child:  No, I don't want that.  I want cookies.

Me:  We're not having cookies for dinner.  If you eat a good dinner, you can have a cookie after.

Child:  Fine, then I'm not having anything.  Runs upstairs to room, slams door, and cries.

Around the TV:

Me:  After this show it's time to turn off the TV and find something else to do.

Child:  (Whining) But I haven't watched any TV today.

Me:  You've already had an hour of TV today.  Time to find something else to do.

Child:  Fine, then I'm not doing anything.  Starts a crying fit.

Around playtime:

Me:  I've played with you for an hour, it's time for me to clean the kitchen and start dinner.

Child:  But what can I do?  I have nothing to do.

Me:  It's time o entertain yourself.  Why don't you get started with building some Magnatiles.

Child:  Fine, then I'm not doing anything.  Runs to room, slams door, starts to cry.

How can I handle these situations?  I feel like these power struggles are increasing by the week.  There are no new changes in environment.  Child is an only child.[/quote]

Situation # 1
"Dinner is ready, come to the table" no menu announcement, just an instruction. If he fails to show up, remind him once and eat without him. One missed meal will not hurt a healthy 5 year old.

Situation # 2 
Set a timer when the TV time begins. You can't argue with a clock. You can even get one that turns the TV off. If he wails and moans, no TV tomorrow.

Situation #3
'Its time to get cleaned up and make dinner, come into the kitchen and let's get started' 5 year olds can be very helpful in the kitchen. Plus it makes them feel important. May also help with situation #1 since kid will be invested in the dinner. 
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