We are still using this, over 3 years later:

With his increased independence, he sometimes trots off solo too soon, with some attitude, ignoring my words.

I just stand still, until he boomerangs back, with a smirk on his face.

I smile or keep a neutral face. And then we proceed together.

If an adult feels a need to comment, I merely say “we are working on our social skills”, and smile.

They always nod and walk off.

(We have worked on this for years, backward chaining.)

We Are Just Going To Stand Here Until . . .

A re-direct to try when you need a good choice

When John doesn’t want to make a good choice (at home or out in public), it has worked astonishingly well for Mom to say, “We are just going to stand here until you are ready to . . . . . . . ”

And we just stand there.

In the bathroom, in the parking lot, going up the stairs at church, in the grocery story, wherever.

We usually are still for about 4.5 seconds, and then his wanting to move gets bigger than his stubborn.

It is a little miracle.

I share it with you.   Maybe it can be a little miracle for you also.

Summer peace be with us,

Gayle