Little Things That Make a Big Difference

Here Are a Few Things That Make the Days Go a Little More Smoothly:

1. Time Allotment

      This morning the boys were fighting over a toy scooter. Benjamin was busy pouting because he didn't want to share with his brother. To resolve this conflict, I took the scooter inside for a while. After about ten minutes, I went outside and told Benjamin that he and Joseph were going to have to take turns using the scooter. Each one would have a time frame of five minutes to play before handing it over to his brother. Much to my amazement, Benjamin replied, "Joe can go first." Problem solved. The boys had no qualms about handing over the scooter each time the timer went off.

     2.  Make Family a Priority.

      Be willing to put down a project, or call back a friend. There are times when the children desperately need you. Other times they need to wait and be less demanding. Be discerning.

    3.  Share responsibilities.

      My children love to help. They are often disappointed if I don't have a job for them to do. Teach them that work is good, and not something to be avoided.

    4.  Be abundant in Praise.

    5.  Give lots of hugs and kisses. You can never tell your child what a great kid they are or how much you love them.

    6.  Let them know that nothing is more important then them. Tell them that they mean the world to you.

    7.   Take turns.

          This can apply to any problem area. Now that I have three, I often feel crowded and overwhelmed as three little chairs pull up around me while I am trying to cook. Every one wants to sit on my lap at the same time. The boys race to push elevator buttons. Conflict is resolved in this area by assuring the boys that this time it is _____ turn. Next time it will be their turn.

    8.   Let Children Play Outside.

          We have a fenced-in back yard with sliding glass doors leading to the kitchen. This can be a life-saver when the children have lots of energy and I need some time to work alone in the kitchen.

    9.   Encourage Them to Serve Others

         Children need to learn that there is joy in serving others. The world does not revolve around them.

   10.  Give the children some time to "get it together" when they need some "time out."
   

   11.  Messes don't have to be Stresses. See them as photo opportunities, and then have the children help you clean up.