My children are ds8, dd7, ds4, and dd2. We are making a concerted effort to teach obedience using Laying Down the Rules for Children (1-2 lessons/week). My children love the games and they really reinforce the necessity of obedience. This morning the children were blindfolded and had to walk through the living room following my instructions to avoid the obstacles I had placed in the way. Then we had a lively discussion on how being obedient can save your life. I highly recommend Laying Down the Rails and Laying Down the Rails for Children.
To avoid nagging I have done two specific things:
1. My children who can read have a good morning list posted in their rooms of the things they must do before 9AM. The plan is to start school work at 9AM (our routine, but not a rigid schedule).
Here is my the list:
Good Morning!
Wake up and read your Bible.
Make your bed.
Go potty.
Get dressed.
Brush or comb your hair.
Eat breakfast.
Table chores.
Wash your face and hands.
Brush your teeth.
Before 9AM
I heard that you should always Inspect What You Expect, so I try to inspect before we start our school day.
2. After weeks of nagging my children to do their table chores, I have started an incentive program that is producing good results so far. My children know what to do, but I kept having to remind them to start their table chores (clearing the table, wiping the table down, sweeping under the table, etc.) at the end of the meal. They kept wandering off to read books or play.
So now the older 3 children earn one popcorn kernel once they complete their table chores without being reminded by me. The kernels are placed in a 8 ounce glass jar and once the jar is full, we will pop the popcorn and have a family movie night. They are working towards a goal and have not forgotten to do their table chores yet. My dd7 who was the one who always had to be reminded to do her table chores is now the leader who makes sure her brothers do their jobs. I love it.
Yes. only. one. habit.
I think that if you stick to one habit, you will see growth in other areas. The morning list requires obedience. My older children are developing regularity in devotions/Bible reading because they follow their list each morning. Last night, my daughter made sure her Bible was on her dresser so it would be handy first thing in the morning.
The incentive for table chores requires initiative and team work. I have noticed growth in truth telling and cleanliness as well.
Don’t do too much or you will get discouraged. Expect slow growth and then rejoice when it happens. Mom’s attitude can make or break habit training. Patience. Patience. Patience. I could probably write a book about all the things I am learning, but I need to start cooking supper!
