This is Wayne's World

I saw a TV programme the other day about the SAS and the training and skills they possess. It was interesting beyond what I thought it could be but got me to thinking. SAS ninja-like skills aren’t too dissimilar to parenting. And coincidentally the day I thought about this my skills were put to the test. We (myself and my Queen) had a nice day out planned in Hebden Bridge and part of the day included a trip to the pottery cafe but with 2 kids that were playing up. And that makes anything difficult. Even walking from A to B requires keen negotiating skills!

Let’s compare

The induction, selection training the SAS give out is effectively the first 6 months of your babies life and the first 6 months of the rest of your life. Imagine a world of broken-to-no sleep and intense observation. Having to think on your feet in situations that at the time seem of life and death importance. Making decisions that you’ve not conceived you’d have to make. Non stop stress and joy and smiles and tears and pain and laughter. A face forged out of emotions yet to be felt. Bloody hard. Just as is an obstacle course and a slice of interrogation. I’m sure.

Then there is the brilliant and classic SAS tactic…

Hearts and Minds

Win over the local people’s trust with understanding and communication. Well the same applies with kids. Hearts and Minds. Win them over with understanding and communication. Earn their trust and the battle is two thirds won. This happens after the first birthday. The sponge can’t stop learning from you. Once we get to between 2 and 3 and a stable relationship has developed it becomes easier to influence your children and they feel a lot less like defecting over to the other side. For example….. Being naughty. There are two types of naughty. When they are trouble for you and when they are trouble for other people. This is apparent with my daughter. I’m not really strict but I’m sure she is better behaved with me then say, her Mum.

Dare you venture out into the jungle without your essential SAS survival kit?

The SAS guy probably doesn’t. And there’s another comparison. I won’t venture out without my survival kit which changes every 6 months or so. Currently I’m packing a spare set of clothes, a packet of baby wipes, scented bags, water and an apple. All these things are essential as a Swiss pocket knife and a compass.

OK so I won’t have to take down the bad guys anytime soon but I -may have to clean up poo or sick. And these strikes could come at any time. You could be walking into a room unsuspecting when…. Bam! Action time. You need a tissue and quick!
So…..
Always be ready and remember…. Who dares wins.