Makin' It Monday

Jason and I are huge fans of Supernanny and have used a lot of her techniches since we first had Joshua. We recently decided though to actually write down the rules and expectations we have for our kids since they are learning to read. It kinda helps make them have a little more responsibility. Here's what we did:

Buy a couple of pieces of poster board and some poster markers



Make the title "cute" so your kids will be less intimidated by it.
I'm a teacher, so of course I love to be able to use those creative genes!
Be sure to write large so kids will be able to see it when it's hung on the wall

Decided on how to formally write up the house rules with your husband.
Again, make sure you write large enough and clear so you can read it.
Make simple rules for younger children, but explain in detail later.
Don't make more than ten as it becomes too overwhelming - so be kind of general

Bring all the kids together at a time when they can listen and pay attention.
Explain your expectations and the consequenses of the "rule chart"
Explain why you made it
Have fun

It has made such a difference in our house having the expectations of proper behavior and the knowledge of consequences if rules get broken. I think this is a lot of why having four kids; four and under; isn't as big of a deal as people around us may think. I rather enjoy it - and they aren't a burden at all. God calls children "a blessing from the Lord" and that they are His inheritence. That is true and it's a whole lot easier to remember that when they are not making th ehouse a jungle gym, screaming or throwing tantrus...

Remember though that kids are testy, and they do test the boundries from time to time. Stand your ground and be the parent - they fall back into line quite quickly :)

Hope you have a great Monday - how are you "Makin' it"?