My advice? Start 'em early. Yes, that is the Joann's ad they are looking at. Yes they got it out themselves so they could go through it. Yes, I am so proud!! :)But, seriously- The real advice? Start teaching your children to be the people you want them to be when they're adults.
Do it on purpose.
a) what a job is
b) what that job requires
c)the consequences for failing to meet their mother's outrageously high standards {ha- that was a joke- my standards aren't that high}.
It means a little more effort on my part now- doing the job with them at times to make sure they know all the ins and outs of the task at hand- but in the future it means hours of reading magazines eating bon bons because I can just make the kids do it. ;) And, as an added bonus, when they move out, on their own, and they are filthy pigs and live in a giant mess- I will be completely guilt free because I will know I taught them better than that. Then I'll drop my candy bar wrapper on THEIR floor. :) Or, maybe, they will actually like having a clean house with things put away and they'll do it themselves. Maybe...
Today's take away? Do it on purpose. Teach them now- whether they're 3 or 13. They can learn- and you'll all be happier for it. Not just house keeping skills {although they are important}, but all the skills they'll need to be successful. Pick one and go to work. The end.
xoxo,
Amy
3 comments:
Fantastic advice. I'm pretty strict with cleaning up, helping out, and manners. I know it will be worth it down the road. And my oldest LOVES JoAnns!!!
I could not agree more! I believe that my job as a parent is to raise my children to be responsible, polite, self-govered adults...and that starts when they are children.
Great post Amy!
hahahahaa. I really have been thinking about this so much lately. THen again sometimes I feel as though I get to laxed and they become little tazmanian devils.
Thanks for the laugh Amy. I needed it!
Post a Comment