It was the end of the day, and he was tired and hungry. Coming home from a long day at school and afterschool daycare depleted him. He had no patience, no need for more stimulation and was undoubtedly ready for dinner.
But dinner was not ready, and there was still homework to do.
“Honey, please take off your coat, empty your lunch kit and wash your hands,” I said as I always do the moment he walks through the door.
“NO! I don’t love you. You’re stupid!” He mutters.
“We don’t say those things. Please just do those few things quickly and then we can sit and practice our letters” I explain.
“NO...that’s stupid!” he screams, then runs off to his room.