One thought came from a lesson I rememberred reading a long time ago on setting limits from the Family Home Evening Manual. The whole idea behind the lesson was that the rules should be decided upon together as a family. So tonight after coaxing Grant into participating in FHE with us in the first place by allowing him to be in charge (he loved that) & a little Derby car making, I found a few moments where we could sit down and discuss a few (8) family rules to keep at our house.
We made a huge chart, with a list of responsibilities, a list of rewards, and a list of consequenses. It took a good long while to get it all completed, but we completed the chart nonetheless (It was after nine mind you but we got it done). Once the chart was finished it was time to read scriptures. We only read one...actually, I just shared a memorized verse, "I the Lord and bound when you do what I say, but when you do not what I say you have no promise."
Because one of our rules is to be reverent, attentive and to participate during scriptures and the boys did just that (even though they were tired) I had to follow through with the reward--a treat (even though I was tired).
Once my boys were tucked soundly into their beds and I found myself drifting off to sleep snuggling with Spencer in his bed...I seemed to hear these words. "This is for you too. You need this just as much as they do." Followed by a really great feeling of peace. I sure hope these really scrambled and sometimes forced efforts have some sort of effect on my boys. I sure do love them and despite what they might think...I want them to be happy, really, really happy.
1 comment:
Funny, Ryan and I were just discussing the same thing, rules and consequences. We seem to be having the same issues. I'm struggling to help my kids understand responsibility and trust. We need a better before and after-school routine. It's hard to fit everything into the day and still have good quality family time. Good luck!
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