February 13, 2009
The Value of Teaching Self-Sufficiency
The Value of Teaching Self-Sufficiency
I admit it. I have some tendencies towards being a control freak, but often as a mom, I've had to put those aside let the kids mess up and teach them how to do things in the process.
The repayment from the temporary mess and annoyance is enormous when mom is sick.
For the last four days, my six year old has been peeling fruit and making PB & J's for everyone's lunch and my nine year old has been doing laundry. Both of them have been plying me with hot tea. All the kids have been making a huge mess, but when my husband comes home and drafts them into service, they have been working hard to help pick it up.
Basically, things are running ok around here and my kids are eating because they learned a few basic skills. When I'm better, I'm going to teach them how to make more foods.
I'm with you, it's totally worth it to have kids who are self sufficient, and who can coddle you! Although mine might need some reminders on how to do laundry. I usually just make them put it all away, while I actually do the moving from machine to machine.
Sorry you are sick and I hope you get better soon.
My 8 and 9 yr olds made omlettes for breakfast this morning for everyone. With no help from me at all.
Teaching independence is a wonderful thing.
Of course these same two drop their clothing on the floor and walk all over it without a second glance. So you know, I take what I can get ;-)
Hope you are feeling better soon.
Posted by: chris at February 14, 2009 04:41 PMYou're not kidding - it pays off big time! Although there is a bit of backsliding with the teens, unfortunately. I feel so sorry for the moms who refuse to relinquish absolute control of the kitchen and laundry - they don't get to enjoy seeing their kids cook and clean!
Nice to meet you, by the way! How did you find me?
Posted by: suburbancorrespondent at February 15, 2009 11:10 AMMy five year old made everyone lunch for the first time a couple of weeks ago. I almost through a party!
Hope you're feeling better!
Posted by: Betty Beguiles at February 17, 2009 10:46 PMMake that "threw" a party. They're this close to rescinding my homeschooling license. ;)
Posted by: Betty Beguiles at February 17, 2009 10:49 PM
Jordana Adams, Chief Pontificator