One thing that Adam and I really try to do as parents is to encourage our children to do for themselves those things that they are capable of doing. Adam and I took a parenting class back before we were pregnant with Branson and the only thing both of us remember from that class is “never do anything for your children (on a regular basis) that they can do for themselves”. Therefore we try to teach and install in our children a level of independence where they realize that they can do things hard things and are capable of a lot more than they think. We also hope that this parenting style helps them to one day become functioning contributing adults – where they can cook their own meals, do their own laundry, balance a budget etc. because they’ve been doing those things their whole lives instead of Mom and Dad doing everything for them. We see it as a win win. They develop confidence in themselves and their abilities and learn to work and do for themselves, and Mom and Dad aren’t as stressed out having to take care of every need in the family. Sa-weet!
So all of my kids are taught from a very young age how to get their own breakfasts, make their own lunches for school, clean toilets and floors, do dishes, and a whole lot of other things. Mostly they really do a pretty good job with a little training and help – but sometimes mistakes happen and messes occur. Which we try to teach them is no biggy – because they learn from mistakes and all messes can be cleaned up – those things sometime happen.
Dawson had a pretty good moment the other morning though when attempting to get his own breakfast that was definitely picture worthy. Rice Krispy’s anyone? This kid was in HEAVEN!!! (and so was his little sister who helped clean up by eating all the ones on the floor). ha!
