Because I Know She Knows

Starlynn is intelligent. Check that... KIDS are intelligent. I know this because of all the many things she picks up on and how she can use her new found wisdom in correct context.

SO, I think that often, I don't treat Starlynn is as capable as I know she is. BUT, we were at the barn (an area I like to be thorough) and Starlynn wanted to ride, but didn't want to brush her horse first (be quiet Rachel). I kept telling her that if she didn't want to brush her horse, she couldn't ride her horse. Even with me "forcing her hand" (holding the brush in her hand and trying to make her brush the horse), she flat-out refused. So, sticking to my guns, we left the barn without her getting to ride. Yes, much protesting, but I just kept explaining her her why she didn't get to ride.

So, the next day on the way to the barn, I talked her her practically the entire way there about "Brush FIRST, THEN ride."

To my immense relief, she picked up a brush and got the shavings off Mynkie and then we proceeded to have a wonderful ride and she has been brushing her horsies ever since, and sweeping the barn and raking the isle (baby-style).

She's a clever little thing and I know if I give her reasonable expectations and stick to my guns, she'll learn some pretty good manners.