What Are The Rules?

I'm not really keen on the word rules.  It makes me sound like a strict headmistress.  However in my life, with my family and in my home, I need rules.  I've tried it without and I just feel out of control and my family suffer, especially my son.  He is so much happier when he knows the rules or a nicer way to say this is, he is happier when he know what is expected of him. 
Let your children know what the ground rules are. Be clear about what you want.

Our children love to make us happy (most of the time).  If they know what is expected of them, what we want from them life becomes easier and happier. 

I don't have a massive list of rules and the ones I do have are incredibly basic. 

• Speak politely
• Treat people with respect
• Be kind to others
• Be kind to our pets
• If you get things out,put them away.
• Take care of your own things
• Help keep our home tidy and clean

These are for all members of our family.

Jack also has a few little rules that help him stay organized for school.

• Sort school bag out as soon as he comes home
• Homework before play
• Pack bag for the next day.

This is what works for me and my family.  I've tried different ideas over the years and as Jack grows we make changes but this pretty much sums up our family rules. 

Sure Jack will get a pile of things out and trash my living room but he knows I want and expect him to clear them before he starts something new.  Sometimes he doesn't want to do his homework but he knows he can't play, watch tv, etc until it's done. 

This is Jack helping out in the garden.  He's doing it because he likes it not because I tell him he has to. 

Now there are always days where some rules go out of the window and that's okay.  I'll talk about being flexible in my next post. 

My message here is simple.  If you let your kids know what you want in a calm and consistent manner.  The chances are most of the time you'll get it.  The added bonus is a happy child who feels safe.

That's all for today.

Happy Parenting

Wendy

Goal Setting and the Law of Attraction in Terms Your Children Will Understand!

Decide What's Important And Set Clear Guidelines (House Rules)

All families are different.  We all have different things that are important to us and we all have different commitments such as work, school activities, etc. Only you the parent/s can decide what house rules fit your own family.

NOTE: I am a firm believer in doing what works for you and your family.  What works wonderfully for the Jones family across the road could be a very bad match for your own family. 

Top Tips

• Sit down and decide what is important to you.  Perhaps early bedtimes and healthy meals are important to you but sitting at the table isn't.  Only you can decide.
• Once you know what's important set your house rules. Don't go overboard though.  Nobody likes every minute of the day to be taken up by rules. 
• Let everyone in the household know the house rules.  Be clear about what each rule means and give examples whenever possible.
• Stick to the rules.  Kids and teens need consistency. 
• Evaluate the rules every few months to see if they still fit your family.