Why do we count as parents?

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Soooo.......

We (my wife and I) have found ourselves counting to our older boy....

"If you don't (etc), you are going to bed, 1...2...3"

WTF????? We have never taught him that in discipline. NEVER has an option been instilled where you have till to the count of.....

As parents, are we naturally ingrained with counting to 3???????????

"1... wait, why the hell am I counting to a two year old? if you don't..."

Daily occurrence with myself and my son.