Parenting Chronicles: When Your Kids Are Natural Negotiators

“Share Mommy! Sharing is Caring!” - Genesis Prather

Parenting Chronicles: When Your Kids Are Natural Negotiators

Y’all, why are these kids trying to outsmart everyone these days? 😂

Let us set the scene for you. It was a rare and glorious moment—Terrence and I were hoping for a peaceful meal. Now, if you’re a parent, you know that eating anything without interruptions is basically like spotting a unicorn. But we were optimistic.

Terrence had even stepped in with a firm warning to our son, Genesis:

“Don’t ask Mommy for any of her food.”

Simple enough, right?

What we weren’t ready for was just how creative our little negotiator would get. Instead of asking outright like most kids might, Genesis grabbed a dry erase board. What followed left us in stitches and once again confirmed that kids don’t need negotiation lessons—they’re born with it.

The Art of the Silent Negotiation

Genesis didn’t plead, whine, or pout. No, he went full CEO-in-training mode.

Step 1: The Initial Appeal

His first note read:
"SHARE MOMMY."

It was a bold, clear, and to-the-point statement. He even had the audacity to stand there silently, holding the board up like a protest sign.

I glanced at him, trying to maintain my composure (and my resolve to finish my meal). But before I could react, he saw my lack of response and pivoted.

Step 2: The Emotional Appeal

He erased his first message and replaced it with:
"SHARING IS CARING."

Y’all, he didn’t say a single word—just stood there with his sign like the world’s tiniest lawyer, presenting his case with undeniable logic.

At this point, Terrence was stifling laughter, and I was trying to keep a straight face. But you already know how this story ends...

Why Do Kids Always Win?

So, there I was, dying of laughter and somehow left with half my food gone. Genesis had worked his magic, and he knew it.

What is it about kids that makes them such natural-born negotiators? Is it their persistence? Their creativity? Or maybe it’s that innocent charm that completely disarms us?

Whatever it is, it’s a skill we can all admit is impressive—even when it works against us.

Tiny Negotiators, Big Life Lessons

As funny (and slightly annoying) as these moments can be, there’s something amazing about the way kids think. Watching Genesis work through her “strategy” reminded us of a few life lessons:

1. Communication Matters

Genesis knew exactly what he wanted and how to ask for it without whining or throwing a tantrum. His approach was calm, creative, and effective. Honestly, we could all take notes from his playbook.

2. Persistence Pays Off

How often do we give up after the first “no”? Genesis didn’t stop at his initial attempt—he refined his approach and kept trying. It’s a reminder that persistence (with a little charm) can open doors—or at least get you a bite of Mom’s meal.

3. Humor is the Ultimate Icebreaker

His silent board-holding routine wasn’t just clever; it was hilarious. Laughter has a way of softening even the firmest “no,” and sometimes, a lighthearted approach can win the day.

Why Eating in Peace is a Parent's Fantasy

If you’re a parent, you’ve probably experienced this a thousand times. Tiny fingers reaching across your plate, little voices declaring, “I just want a bite!” (Which, let’s be honest, is never just a bite.)

Somehow, kids have an uncanny radar for when you’re trying to enjoy something—whether it’s food, a quiet moment, or even a sip of coffee. And while it can be maddening, it’s also one of those things that makes parenthood so... well, real.

A Call to All Parents: Share Your Stories

This moment with Genesis had us laughing and reflecting on the joys and challenges of parenthood. But we know we’re not alone in this!

Who else can’t eat a meal without tiny negotiators swooping in? What’s the funniest thing your child has done to get what they want?

We’d love to hear your stories. Drop them in the comments or share them with us on social media! Parenting is a wild ride, and we’re all in this together.

Building a Legacy of Laughter and Love

At the end of the day, these moments—while chaotic—are the memories we’ll cherish. They remind us why we do what we do: to raise kids who are thoughtful, determined, and yes, a little too smart for their own good sometimes.

So here’s to all the parents out there, juggling meals, negotiations, and everything in between. May your food be warm (at least occasionally), your laughter be loud, and your hearts be full.

Want More Real-Life Parenting Stories?

If you loved this story, make sure to check out The Vision For Us Podcast! We’re all about sharing the real, unvarnished journey of marriage, faith, and entrepreneurship—sprinkled with plenty of laughter and lessons from parenthood.

Subscribe, listen, and join our community of couples who are navigating this wild ride together.

Until next time, keep laughing, keep loving, and keep sharing your plate (even if it’s under protest).

By Terrence & Angelica Prather
Founders of The Vision For Us Podcast