Negotiations.

Last night, on our way home from Philip's end-of-year school picnic, Philip and Clara were arguing over whether they would have a bath or shower before bed. Clara wanted a shower. Philip wanted a bath. They just kept repeating themselves, louder and louder, and I was going crazier and crazier.

I half-jokingly suggested that they each take a turn to tell each other WHY they think a shower or bath would be better, and maybe they can agree. (Seriously, they're 2 & 4. I didn't count on it working or anything.)

This conversation followed:

Clara: Philip, we should have a shower because we can wash with slippery soap. And drop it. And laugh.
Philip: (who had ignored her argument altogether) No - we should have a bath.
Clara: Oh yeah? Why?
Philip: Because it's more fun!
Clara: More fun? Yeah?
Philip: And we can play with our toys. And fill our buckets.
Clara: Oh yeah - it's FUN to do that!
Philip: So THAT's why we should have a bath tonight.
Clara: (who is now done listening patiently) Sorry buddy. We're having a shower.