[_carbyau_]

As a parent, this works well with toddlers too. When you start counting they know a storm is coming and they can avoid it if they choose their next answer/action carefully...

[dansiemens]

“No Dad stop counting!” is how my toddler retorts. Works wonders though!

[Perenti]

"I want that done by the time I count to one" terrifies 5-7 year olds.

[rendall]

"I don't want to have to count" I said to my son the other day, whence he scurried

[_carbyau_]

I say this exact thing too. It usually plays out as:

- ask kiddo to do something, get a "no" or "I'm busy."

- I say "I don't want to have to count." Continued resistance 30% of the time.

- If resistance then counting starts. Compliance comes earlier or later in the counting 95% of the time.

If counting finishes then guaranteed tears also has a plan because wife and I have time to see it coming too.