It's so much faster just doing it myself!

I know when our kids were little, we did whatever we needed to getting out the door. Our boys used to bathe and then sleep in their clothes for school the next day. Really, they did. They wore velcro sneakers for years. We both had full time career jobs, and being efficient and fast was critical.

Boy, did we (and they) miss out on so much!

I’ve learned that taking the time for training and teaching pays out. When children learn to do new things for themselves, they are becoming independent, and building self-confidence through their own achievements. They learn they are capable individuals. The bonus: you get more time to do other things.

Here are some ideas for how you can help your kids and yourself by taking the time for training!

· Allow children to help at meal time. For example, most 2-3 year olds can take a fork and scramble and egg in a bowl, for you to then cook, and they can set the table. Most 6-7 year olds can make a salad. Most 8-9 year olds can scramble eggs. Eleven-twelve year olds can food shop with your list. So meal time no longer has to be “all you”!

· Work with your child to develop a routine chart for mornings. Have them list the things that need to get done, and the order they would like to do them in. This can include lunch and snack preparation! Take pictures of them doing these things, then make a visual chart for them to follow. They can then take care of themselves, while you get ready for your day!

· Rather than telling your child what to do, ask them what needs to be done. What do you need to bring with you so you will be warm outside? What’s next on your routine chart? What do you need to do so your teeth will be clean? What’s your plan for getting your homework done? When they own it, they will be more likely to get it done. And, they are learning how to problem solve for themselves.

We all want our children to grow up to be capable, independent, responsible, self-sufficient adults. There are ways of developing relationships with your children that help them build these important life skills.

Come learn more in one of our Positive Discipline Parenting Classes! Our winter class schedule is now available at http://www.positivedisciplinewesternct.org/parenting-classes/

Want to be added to our email list to receive tips & tools, class updates, and more? Click here http://eepurl.com/8eOZj.