Good Deal

Zach, after a long day with no nap, asked to play his video game (Little Leaps). I told him we weren't turning on the TV for a movie or a video game. He then raced over to his blocks and said, "Blocks away. Video game. Good deal", and feverishly began shoveling his blocks into their bucket. A minute later, with five blocks left, he looked at me and said, "Almost done!"

Although I'd like to be consistent at all times by following through with my decision, I couldn't possibly argue with his logic. He is now contentedly playing his video game. Notice the blocks bucket next to him.

No. Yes.

Zach is becoming very contrary as works his way into his third year. When Aaron or I ask him a question, he will typically respond by saying, "no", and will then become upset when he realizes that "no" means "no" and not "yes". Some examples (many of these conversations are more rhetorical in nature than practical):

Parent: Zach, do you want to watch Rocket movie?
Zach: No.
Parent: Okay, we won't watch Rocket.
Zach: Yes, want Rocket movie!
Parent: Oh, so you would like to watch Rocket?
Zach: No watch Rocket!
Parent: Are you two?
Zach: No!
Parent: How old are you?
Zach? Tee.
Parent: Are you being contrary?
Zach: Yes.

Or:

Zach: Want Bee downstairs.
Parent: Would you like me to go bring Bee downstairs?
Zach: No Bee downstairs! No Bee downstairs. Bee upstairs!
Parent: Would you like Bee to stay upstairs?
Zach: No Bee upstairs! No Bee upstairs! Be downstairs!

This Bee discussion happens several times a day and is almost always accompanied by stomping of the feet and a hysterical tone of voice.