Whistle while you work

I have tried really hard to teach my kids how to clean properly and help out with the housework. They have been really good at helping out when I ask them to (and even when I don’t ask them to) but I found that I was still trying to do it all……….because it is more convenient that way. (And gets done JUST the way I like)

Well, a couple of weeks ago I finally snapped. I realized I could not do it all any longer. (And for those of you who know me REALLY well will understand what a breakthrough this was for me)

I was toying with the idea of a job chart, but wondered if the kids were too young for that just yet. But I like things to be organized so I decided a job chart was the way we would go. (Plus, my kids function better when I have things organized for them)

I sat the kids down and explained the job chart “rules” to them. They were not only on board, they were totally excited. (Strange children!!)

They love getting up each day to see what their job will be.

I don’t have to remind them very often, once one child remembers to start his/her job the other kids want to join in on all of the “fun” without being asked.  It’s great!!

And what makes me REALLY smile is that once one kid gets done with his/her job, they will go help someone else finish up their job too.

It melts my heart to see them gladly help each other like that.

They are doing such a great job! I am so glad I didn’t just write them off as too young for a job chart. Even Morgan is getting into it all.

We switch the jobs around each day right now while they are younger, but eventually they will have the job longer than one day at a time. 

I do this for two reasons; it keeps them excited because they like to see what they have each day. And I also do this because if the job is not done QUITE as well as I would like, eventually I will get that job (since I too am on the job chart) and then I can do it how I like. :)

Our new little one might have to wait a few years before she can get in on all of the action. And for now, she is totally fine with that.

I am also glad I finally admitted I can’t do it all myself.

Sometimes we mothers can needlessly wear ourselves out just because we think we have to do it all.

I would encourage you to look around at all of the little blessings (and little helpers) you have in your life that are there to make your load a little lighter. :)