Chores

Last week I informed the boys that because it is summertime I am giving them more opportunity to help around the house. Today was the first day of said goal. Michael was responsible to help with dishes and Jacob was to help with meals. This has been coming up in conversations with friends lately. I'm doing more than I need to and our children are very capable. At dinner preparing time, Jacob was not very eager to help, but that didn't last long at all, granted I let him use a knife. As I think about it, this may be the first time I've ever done that. Jacob was responsible for filling the pot with water, turning on the stove, chopping onions and mushrooms, stirring the noodles and sauce. He was a great helper. I really enjoyed spending time with Jacob as we prepared dinner. Michael was very interested and is looking forward to next week when they trade jobs.

Along with the whole chore subject. The boys have had the same morning chores for 2 1/2 years now: make bed, get dressed, pick up floor, brush teeth. We've moved past needing a flip chart to accomplish these chores. Since moving, morning chores have even gotten easier. Picking up the floor use to be split into sub-categories to help divide the work equally. Moving into a larger place has eliminated the clutter. They don't hang out in their room very often and so there is not much to pick up, mainly clothes. But nonetheless I still get some resistance. One of my boys would gladly walk around naked all day if I'd let him. His attitude is if we're not going anywhere why get dressed. I hope that they are getting the concept of cause and effect. Sarah is my great helper on this one. NO movies until late afternoon and only if chores are done. They can't procrastinate all morning and then quickly run in and make their bed, because their sweet sister is taking her lengthy nap!!!!