Me: “OK, guys, we’re going to try something new.  I think you guys are big enough to clean your own messes, so Bennett, because you flung your yogurt on the floor, I’m going to give you a paper towel, and you’re going to wipe it up yourself.”

Sutton: “I want a paper towel!”

Me: “No, you don’t understand.  It’s a punishment.  Bennett made a mess, so he has to clean the floor.”

Sutton: “I want to clean the floor!”

Me: “Honey…”

Sutton: “I WANT TO CLEAN THE FLOOR!”

Me: “Um… well, can you say please?”

Sutton: “Please have paper towel and clean floor?”

Me: “OK, nice job.”

Me: “Wow, you’re even going to throw the paper towel away?  What a good girl!  Bennett, can you say thank you to your sister?”

Bennett: “Paper towel!”

Me: “Yes, you can still have your paper towel, too.”

Me: “Remember, guys.  Don’t throw food on the floor, or you’re going to get punished!”