Every kid learns one way or another that actions speak louder than words.

When one kid threatened to run away from home, their dad didn’t say no, but instead helped them pack and taught them a valuable lesson in the process.

You’ll want to read on for this one!

You want to run away? Okay, let me help you pack…

When I was around 10, I was arguing with my parents about something, and I don’t remember what it was.

I remember threatening to run away as sort of a way to get what I wanted.

By their own admission, they were bluffing.

I didn’t really want to run away, but I thought it would do something.

Dad asked if I really meant what I said, and I said yes.

BAD MOVE

So their father took an unusual approach.

Dad: Okay then, let me help you do that.

Dad took me into my room, pulled out a small suitcase, and started going through my things.

As he was packing my suitcase up with clothes, he was giving me advice on where I should go, how to take care of myself, etc.

They begin to lose it, and the father continues with his plan.

I was hysterical at the moment, sobbing and choking on tears as I insisted I was just kidding.

Dad pretended to ignore me and kept giving advice.

He also insisted that I was “so sure about leaving.”

His kindness made them feel even worse.

He acted like his kind, fatherly self the entire time, which made it even worse that I thought about leaving.

Eventually, I was outside of my house at night.

So he carried out the plan all the way out until the very end.

I don’t remember if Dad urged me out and kissed me goodbye, or I left on my own thinking my parents were kicking me out and couldn’t bear to stay and watch it all happen.

I made it halfway down my driveway when Dad sprinted out of the house and grabbed me.

The plan was incredibly effective.

He hugged me and said he was just kidding, but I should never threaten to run away ever again.

I never did, but years later, that memory still haunts me.

Sometimes, the best way to teach a lesson is to call the bluff gently but firmly.

What did Reddit make of this unorthodox parenting approach?

Apparently other parents have tried a similar approach.

This commenter has a similar experience.

What an interesting way to teach a child a valuable lesson!

The suitcase might’ve been light, but the lesson was anything but.

She never forgot it!

If you liked that post, check this one about a guy who got revenge on his condo by making his own Christmas light rules.