Interesting how many of you read 'How to Talk...'. The reason I re-read the chapter on punishment was that DS was clearly unaffected by my response to his hurtful behaviour ("Right, that's it! No bedtime story tonight!"). I picked up the book and it actually fell open on the page about punishment! I would like to report that since actively listening to DS2's reasons for his upset, he felt remorseful and made me another crown - but no. However, I could feel the futility of my punishment and felt there must be a better way.
I used the technique again this morning when DS2 had another meltdown over the same issue. He is struggling with being only six and watching his older brother do things that he isn't allowed to do. Instead of getting cross with him, I sat down on the sofa with him cuddled up next to me, and let him talk about how unfair it all was. Then put the telly on as a distraction (not recommended in the book, but I needed a break!).
It is all white and pretty here too this morning, BlueEyes. DS2 exclaimed, "Santa Claus has come to town!" when he saw it. We will bundle ourselves up and go out sledging later. We bought a new sledge earlier this year, so that will get used for the first time. I know what will happen though: the children will start off all enthusiastic, then get cold and start wailing that they want to come home again! It happens every year. One year, I noticed that most of the children sledging were in tears because of the cold! The best bit of sledging is coming home to your warm home afterwards and drinking hot chocolate.
Have decided to apply for a statement for DS1, so am spending some time this morning printing out relevant information. Have already been on the Special Needs' board - am not sure what I'd do without it at times like this, as it is such a brilliant place to contact people who have knowledge and experience about SNs.
DH and I were meant to be going out to a concert this afternoon, with MIL babysitting, but that's impossible now as she can't get here (we're at the bottom of a hill and nobody can drive in or out).
MummyNic - sorry you had such a terrible night 
. DS2 still wakes up wanting me (thankfully only about once a night now) and I just get in with him and go back to sleep. It's actually quite nice to get that nightly cuddle. However, I know that not everyone can sleep with wriggly children (DH included).
thewaffler - sorry you had to cancel your visitors, but at least you enjoyed the meal. Hope the clearing up isn't too arduous this morning. Also hope you get to catch up on sleep (up at 3 
).
Linzer - yes, I agree that DS2 was trying to hurt me by tearing up the crown. I wish he would show some regret by making me a new one, but there's no sign of it. I was very calm about it, so maybe he doesn't understand how hurtful it is because I didn't act upset. He is such a sweet boy generally, but children can be so selfish. I remind myself that their self-centredness is a self-protective device to ensure that they survive (I read that somewhere 
) and that it takes time to develop empathy. Hope you have a nice time with your friend this afternoon.
LifeBegins - it is awful how hurtful our children can be, isn't it? You have to try not to mind and focus on the times when they are sweet and thoughtful, but it's difficult sometimes.
Must go, but hope you all enjoy the lovely, snowy day. Wrap up warm!