Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:When my kid would come in and want extra snuggles and I was exhausted (so, not often at all), I'd say that I'm very tired and ask him to tuck ME in. That works great.
Your story sounds a bit off. Either you are not getting the full story or the mom in question has serious issues.
This is OP. I’ve seen her do it
Kid comes home from school:”can I have a hug”
Mom: “no, you’re really needy. I feel like you’re not giving me space”
Yikes! There’s a big difference between “I had a tough day and need some downtime, let’s plan to snuggle later” and “you specifically are excessively needy, so I am withholding affection to teach you a lesson.”
I basically have only said no when it’s the 17th request for a hug at bedtime or when I’m obviously doing something (making dinner, etc) that requires use of my hands.
I’m lucky that in my current job I almost always have at least 30 mins between finishing work and being “on” for my kids. Ime, it’s better to leave that at aftercare a little longer and have some self downtime so I’m able to be present w their post school needs vs picking up earlier and feeling grouchy.