Here are some childhood gems - sentences that English parents say or rather used to say to discipline their children or teach them a lesson. Can you guess what they mean? Match the sentences to the meaning they convey. (Correct answers at the end of the post)
1. I want doesn't get.
2. If you act like a child, I'll treat you like one.
3. Why would I get a dog and bark myself?
4. Who's 'she'? The cat's mother?
5. Carry on and I'll give you something to cry about.
A. If you don’t change your behaviour you’ll be punished.
B. It is important to earn what you want.
C. You need to show respect when you refer to others.
D. You should take responsibility for your actions.
E. I won’t do what is your duty.
What do you think about using these phrases by parents or caregivers? Do you believe they are effective in conveying important messages to children?
Answers: 1-B, 2-D, 3-E, 4-C, 5-A