Wow, why would that dad allow the kids to set the table yet not allow them to get them out of the cabinet. I would rate myself as about 4 for several reasons. I let my 6 and 4 years set the table and get the dishes out. I allow them to pour from a container only if it half or less full(many accidents), they are allowed to go into the snack cabinet and get anything they want. Since we don't have a enclosed yard and butt up against the woods, I would let them outside unless we are out with them. They clean up messes and love to do dishes(hand wash only no dishwasher) except for knives. They have tried to fold clothes but I land up refolding because alot of the time they leave them kinda rolled up. They pick out own clothes to wear. They have bath time by themselves with an occasional check in to see how they are doing. They love to sweep and mop. They refuse to vacuum. I let them set the tone as to what they like to try but sometimes I refuse to let them do stuff because I just want it a certain way so I will only do it. They do get alot of freedom to do and see things but with safety restriction in place.
Michelle (The Beartwinsmom)
· 1 year ago
I don't know what I'd rate myself.. This is great food for thought, Amy. You always come up with such great ideas. So, how would you rate me? ;-)
The boys are pouring their own milk here, too. Sometimes they'll even fix their own breakfast (granted, it's a bagel w/ cream cheese or butter, but still, they're learning.)
And, if we don't let our kids try to do something, how will they ever learn? You have to practice, make mistakes, and then learn. Learning is messy.
Amy LeForge
· 1 year ago
Crissy, I guess that makes me a 4 or a 5. :) I do let the younger boys go out when I can't see them, assuming their older brothers are close by. I can trust them to stay in our yard unsupervised as well, but it's pretty sheltered here. They're allowed to go to the neighbors if big brothers are there, but not allowed to swim in the neighbor's pool. Chores and house stuff I do the same as you, although I do let them pour a full apple juice (not milk - too heavy).
Michelle, sheesh I don't know what I'd rate you. 5 maybe? I'm not as familiar with how you handle the going outside stuff. You tend to have things more structured than me - which works for your family. I don't know if that necessarily makes you a control freak or just keeps you at "more structured". :)
Sandie Law
· 1 year ago
My husband will tell you I'm a control freak. I like to know what's going on and make sure everything goes well. However, I've found that my best days as a parent are the days where I let go of the reins and let my son take charge. For me, it's about trust...and don't we all want our kids to grow up knowing what trust is?
Amy LeForge
· 1 year ago
Excellent point, Sandie. It's not easy to learn to trust our children; after all the job originally calls for us to do everything for them. The transition from that to letting them do everything on their own is a big one.
All Comments
The boys are pouring their own milk here, too. Sometimes they'll even fix their own breakfast (granted, it's a bagel w/ cream cheese or butter, but still, they're learning.)
And, if we don't let our kids try to do something, how will they ever learn? You have to practice, make mistakes, and then learn. Learning is messy.
Michelle, sheesh I don't know what I'd rate you. 5 maybe? I'm not as familiar with how you handle the going outside stuff. You tend to have things more structured than me - which works for your family. I don't know if that necessarily makes you a control freak or just keeps you at "more structured". :)