I have always adopted the mean what you say school of parenting and if I say No, I mean it and rarely back down. DH is a bit more inclined to give way, but not me.
Sometimes I worry that I'm a bit strict. However I've noticed recently that everytime my answer to a question is No my dc's automatic response is 'but....' and they argue the point. I usually give a reason why I've said no, so it's not just a blank refusal. I have three dc's from 7 - 11 and some days I feel that these conversations are relentless. I am sick of saying variations on 'I said no' 'don't argue with me' and by the end of the day 'just do what I say'.
I often feel that if I say something in a nice tone of voice they think I don't mean it until I end up shouting or being obviously cross. This isn't how I want life to be.
DD1 sent me a text today saying I don't mean to be rude Mum, but is it your period? This is because I've had a lot to do today and they have constantly argued the point with me.
What can I do? Either a better approach or a way of accepting it and not getting so cross.