The Preschooler

Refrigerator Box

Last week, I was on the phone with a business associate.  We were trying to have a professional conversation.  I should have known better.  In fact, it would be pretty safe to say that any conversation I attempt to have the on the phone, professional or not, typically involves two little boys following me around the house, asking me questions, complaining, fighting, and otherwise carrying on. 

Why does it seem to be that the ringing of the phone triggers some Pavlovian response in children that signals them to come talk to Mom?  Do they act like this all the time and I just notice it more while I am on the phone?  Perhaps they don’t want to share attention with someone else.

Whatever the reason, my business associate, being a mom herself, was more than understanding.  In fact, she gave me a wonderful suggestion I plan on implementing as soon as possible.  She shared a little trick that another mom had shared with her several years ago.  She said, “What you need is a Refrigerator Box.”

She then explained to me that a Refrigerator Box is a simple box or basket that rests nicely on top of the refrigerator and only comes down when you are on the phone.  It is full of gadgets, gizmos, and toys that your children are only allowed to play with while you are on the phone.  When your conversation is over, and the phone is returned to its resting place, the box and all of its contents is also returned to the top of the refrigerator.  The kids are then happy and entertained, and you are able to carry on a conversation without twenty interruptions.

Read MoreNo Comments

Digg Delicious Favorites Blogmarks Magnolia Google Newsvine Reddit Technorati

Written by Laura on April 15, 2011