I took his arm and led him over to a quieter area, giving him a chance to calm down as I told him off for being so selfish and rude. With a quick glance around to ensure no do-gooders were there to interfere, I gave him a very firm smack to the back of his leg. “Behave yourself or you will be getting a proper smack, Harry!” I warned him, as we walked back to his party.
Harry did heed my warning for a while – but then we cut his birthday cake and he again started misbehaving. One or two kids who were not with our group had obviously decided to try their luck by joining the rush for cake and as Harry saw them walking away from the table, holding paper plates containing his cake, he again lost his temper.
“Give that back!” he screamed at them, so loudly and angrily that it caused a momentary hush in the soft play area – which is quite a feat, as I’m sure anyone who has ever attended one can confirm!