When They Reject Both

Sooner or later a child says 'neither' or invents option C. This is the moment most plans fall apart, because it feels easier to bargain.

Don't. State it once, calmly: 'Those are the two choices right now.' Say it like a weather report — no anger, no negotiation. If they still refuse, decide for them this time and say, 'I'll choose now; you can choose next time.' That keeps the boundary intact without turning the choice into a debate.

Why hold the line over something as small as cereal versus toast? Children learn from patterns. If pushing creates option C, refusal gets rewarded; if you stay warm and firm, the real choices stay real.