Sometimes my parenting ideas backfire...

At bedtime I've made it a habit to hold Charlie, after changing his diaper and just before putting him in his bed, as long as he keeps his head down on my shoulder. As soon as he picks his head up, I say good night, lay him down and leave the room. I've done this since Charlie was an infant and able to hold his head up. After he learned to walk I didn't get much holding time in so this was my few minutes to hold him at the end of the day without the interruptions of the girls.

Until recently the ritual took a few minutes tops. He'd rest his head for a few moments and then look up at me at which time I laid him down. Well, the smart little cookie has figured me out. He will not pick up his head. Not under any circumstances. Even if I tickle. He will wait me out with a smile on his face and drooling on my shoulder.

I suppose Pavlov would be proud.