Chores

I think that there is a lot to be said about chores and how you raise your kids to view them.  Right now, Tristan has just turned 3 and has been picking up his toys for probably close to 2 years.  Lucy is an avid toy picker up when asked to be, and they don't view it as punishment.  I think there is a sense of entitlement in kids that gets rooted fairly early in life.  I'm hoping to instill in them the want to help and not see it as something that undesirable.  And if it is, then to do it anyways.  :)

Tristan is really into helping out.  After meal times and snacks he knows to put his cup on the counter in the kitchen, or in the sink.  It's just a reaction he has when he's all done eating.  He's SUPER excited about helping me fold laundry and transfer it from the washer to the dryer... haha.  Mostly wash clothes, but you start somewhere right?  He's very interested in helping and showing Lucy where things go and when its time to pick things up he helps her with that as well.

Lucy wiping down the table after our snack.  haha.

I'm sure as they get older and realize that doing these sorts of activities aren't really that exciting, there will be more grumbling and complaining, but I am hoping that they understand that it's just the way of things.  That, I'm training them for life skills and not just being a bully.  Most of the time I can explain things to Tristan and he understands... and once he has that understanding all is well.  :)  He's such a joyful little man who is so eager to help and be my big boy helper.  I'm hoping that wonderful attitude continues.  :)

JVG