K-Tribe commented yesterday about a free e-book she read called “Smooth and Easy Days“. It’s a short read – I read it in about a half hour – and a great summary of how to instill good habits in your child. It reiterates a few things I already knew from various parenting books and brought to life a few other tips on how to get my kids where I want them to be. I highly recommend it. To read it, click here.
It reminded me of a habit I had with my kids that I got away from earlier this school year. If you remember this post, then you know our mornings are hectic and stressful trying to get to school. Ann commented there was a rule in her house that playing was not allowed until the child was ready for school. As I read that I thought, “Yes, I have that rule too. Why am I not enforcing it?!”
Lynda from South Africa told of her sticker chart idea for tasks completed which reminded me of my own system from last year…. long since left by the wayside with the distractions of having a medically fragile child at home. So, I re-instituted morning boards. And let me tell you, getting ready for school has been a snap. In fact, we were ready so early the other day, I had time to do Natalie’s hair in two french braids and Ainsley hair in pig tails (what each requested).
Here is a picture of our boards.
There is a picture for each task that needs to be completed on a poster board.
Each task is adhered to the board with velcro and is put into the pocket when completed. (I’m not sure why my picture rotated like this… I took it portrait twice and it uploaded landscape. Sorry about that.) There is a 9:00 snack listed because when Natalie was in preschool I had to feed her a snack before she left or she would complain of being hungry before lunchtime. It is still there for Ainsley.
I first saw this concept on Supernanny with Jo Frost when Natalie was a baby. I saw it repeated in real life by my friend Bridget who has three kids in school and three preschoolers at home. She uses boards for lots of things including morning routines and chores. I love that it’s visually stimulating and fun for the kids to complete. Natalie has never complained about having to do her boards.
What tricks do you have up your sleeve for instilling great habits in your kids? Or if you’ve never focused on this before, what would you like to try?
(c) 2016 Leighann Marquiss
Comments (9)
Aww YEAH!! You are such a go getter!! I am glad you found some nuggets in the e-book. GOOD JOB GIRL!! We do the chore charts too! They work very nicely.
Hi Leighann,
I found your site through a “Pray for Ryan” link on a friend’s site. First I want to say how inspiring you have been to me. Second, in relation to your post, we have used picture schedules for several years with our daughter who has autism. They are a wonderful way to let the kids know what is expected during the specific period of time. It really helps to give them some control and a huge help with transitioning between tasks. Especially when there is something fun to do or eat at the end. You are in our prayers 🙂 Theresa Ream, Holliston, MA
To be honest, yelling and screaming has been my go-to method. So, if there is anyone else out there doing this, you are not alone. And you’re not alone feeling terrible for the rest of the day after being weak and yelling.
We all know this is the worst approach and our kids do deserve a better way. I like the method you are trying with the picture board for expectations.
Is there a reward after all of the pictures are back in the envelope? Or is not being yelled at the reward :)?
I love your morning boards. I have been trying to think of something like that but couldn’t visualize what it would look like. Thanks for a great idea!
PS- Here is a link to some ideas for tots out there..
http://www.squidoo.com/workboxes
This is where we get some graphics and board ideas from..
This is really helpful. You’re right, our habits from the fall have waned now that we’re all in spring fever.
Thanks for your comment at my blog today!
It has taken me way to long to catch up on all the stories and pictures but I’m glad I did. I love the boards for the girls and am thinking I will give it a try!!! Sounds awesome! Thanks for the tips…every bit of advice helps. Glad to hear all is well with your family!!!
Anonymous: I am laughing out loud at your comment. Not at you, but with you. I have been in that boat myself and hate how I sound when I’m yelling. I relate to the guilt thing.
I do not give the girls a reward when they are done their chart so I guess less stress and no yelling is the reward. As well as set expectations, better communication, and being on time. 🙂
Whoo hoo!! My name made it on to your blog!! Does this make me famous??? haha
I am glad that the mornings are a bit smoother for you now!
Have a great day!
Lynda (from South Africa)