If my kids had called Carol instead of mom I would have ignored them. And my kids knew that if I said no, and they kept it up it would be no for a long time. To many parents want to be their kids "friend" today and kids have no respect for adults because they know they can push their way into getting what they want because it is easier to finally give in than hold firm. Doesn't mean you can't talk to them, but as the parent we have final say. And many of today's kids want things that are bad for them, thanks to TV and their friends.