(In an earlier article, we outlined the four basic principles that must be understood, the foundation upon which the methods or ideas in the how-to sections of this book – or any home management training program - must be built. These include:
- Have realistic and age-appropriate expectations.
- Establish rules or standards.
- Have a working knowledge of family discipline.
- Tie strings to their hearts.
Last time, we discussed a working knowledge of family discipline. We pick up here with the fourth principle.)
Tie strings to their hearts
Children who have “connections” to their parents’ hearts will desire to please them and honor them. These relational attachments can be formed when you:•Do things with your children.
Do things with your children.•Smile and speak gently with them.
Smile and speak gently with them.•Laugh with them (not at them).
Laugh with them (not at them).•Show interest in what they tell or show you.
Show interest in what they tell or show you.•Let your children be part of your life as you apprentice them in what it means to be wise and to show godly
Let your children be part of your life as you apprentice them in what it means to be wise and to show godly discernment.•Give them choices - opportunities to practice their judgment.
Give them choices - opportunities to practice their judgment.•Love them and let them know that they are important, special, and needed.
Love them and let them know that they are important, special, and needed.Copyright 2006, Vicki Bentley, Family Resources
Getting Kids to Help at Home
Laying a Foundation (Part Five)
(excerpted from The Everyday Family Chore System)
