When our children were younger I devoted countless hours to their care and comfort. I attended to their cries and was readily available to shower them with attention.
As they grow older they learn to care for themselves more and more. My children range in age from 5-15 are able to operate the mechanics of our home short of the financial aspects.
From the first time that I see my children demonstrate a desire to take responsibility for themselves and their surroundings, I've taken advantage of that desire.
I have always raised my children as though I may not be around tomorrow.
I cultivate a desire in my children to be responsible for their property and areas.
I teach them how to make basic meals for them selves. The (2) younger children should know how to pour drinks, set a table setting and prepare a simple snack like crackers and peanut butter. They are taught to clean up after eating. The older children learn to prepare side items for meals and then the main courses.
The benefit of allowing children to take responsibility for the day to day operation of their home life gives them a sense of responsibility. The best part is that it gives mom a reprieve from caring for the basic needs of the entire family.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
2 comments:
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Children love to help around the house, especially in the kitchen. I've known mothers who wouldn't even allow their children to make their beds because it didn't "look smooth enough" I love having my children help around the house. When they were toddler, I had them bring me diapers and stuff for the baby.
ReplyDeleteI miss those days of having a baby around.....
Have a great day :)
I am so sorry for those moms. I used to be that mom. I would do many things for my children in an attempt to make sure that everything was done perfectly. I was wearing myself out. My 5 and 7 year old do not make there beds neatly all of the time, but I have learned to accept it and also show them how to smooth it out. Some days I just ignore it and others I use as a teaching moment to help them become better at making beds.
ReplyDeleteMy husband is the one who encouraged me to allow the children to help me at home. I am so thankful that I took his advice.