Lawyer in the making?

Ethan has been developing his negotion skills quite well. As most children do, he tries to manipulate the situation to his liking. His latest venture has been with items that we use as rewards and incentives.

Rather than just asking if he can play on the game cube or have a piece of candy, he's learned to phrase it in a way that sets him in the advantage.

"Mom, have I been good enough to get a peanut butter candy?"

"Mom, I helped you do laundry, can I play on the TV (game cube).

"Dad, I helped in the yard, can I play on the computer."

When he actually has been good, it is extremely difficult to tell him no.