Do ever wonder whether it is you causing the problems or DC?

[mumofeve]

Sometimes I wonder which comes first (the chicken or the egg ). For example, I must admit that I woke up today in not the best mood - a little bit tired and grouchy - but hey what's new!
DD (3) however has been a NIGHTMARE! We've had plenty of mind-bending conversations along the lines of:
DD: I want to help you.
Me: Well wait one minute.
DD: NOOOOO I WANT TO HELP YOU NOW.
Me: Don't shout please, and you can help me with the washing.
DD: I DON'T WANT TO HELP WITH WASHING!
Me: Okay, don't help then, I'll do it on my own.
DD: {throws self on floor screaming} WHY WON'T YOU LET ME DO WASHING! [ensuing tantrum lasts 5 mins]

This has happened about 20 times so far today and I am at screaming pitch now! The question is, does my lack of tolerance lead to this sort of situation, or is it purely DD (tiredness etc etc)???

Have bought How to talk so Kids will listen, but its not going well so far!

I get this exact same situation with my DS who is almost two. If I'm tired or feeling a bit low its almost as if he can tell and seems to 'bounce' off of me feeling bad. Last Friday was a nightmare for me - I was feeling very low and my ds was saying no to everything I suggested we do then throwing a mini tantrum everytime I said 'well don't then'. It all ended in me phoning my DH in tears and him coming home from work early.
I know we're not supposed to take our moods out on our children or even let them know we're feeling crap but sometimes its blooming difficult!!