When my daughter was a third-grader, we read a children's book called 'A Day Without Nagging'. She begged and pleaded for just one day each year when she could also be free from any nagging. She looked forward to it so much that I said yes.
She wrote down the date of the no-nagging day, posted it up in her room, and counted the days until then. And when the day finally came, she really soaked it up. When our no-nagging day approached again the next year, she made the same demand. It became a yearly ritual for us until she graduated from grade school.
This year, my daughter enters middle school. It's an angsty time for any kid. I often get on her case as a parent, but I will try to tone it down as much as I can.
get on sb's case - to criticize someone in an annoying way for something they have done
be/go on at sb - to complain to someone again and again about their behaviour or to ask them to do something
pat on the back - praise
- The weather was so nice that I went outside to soak it up. / Soak it up while you have the chance.
- College was an angsty time for me. / During that angsty time, it's good to have friends who understand.
- Your parents only get on your case because they love you. / I'm too old for you to get on my case like that.
1: Do you often go on at your kids?
2: Sure, I start first thing in the morning.
1: Same here.
2: But I sometimes think I should pat her on the back more often.
1: That's right.
2: I'm making an effort to really cut down on my nagging.