I was getting my hair cut tonight and in the waiting area just chatting with some other clients and we got on the subject of chores and how kids these days don’t have to do them like we did as kids. I piped up with “my son helps put away dishes and helps set the table and he’s only 3” only to be responded to with slight disdain: “I think 3 is too young!” a woman replied.
And what did I do?
Defended myself. That’s right – knee jerk reaction. She judged me and my parenting skills and I defended myself with a muttered “he’s a bit precocious” and then louder: “Well, he likes to help!” And even went on to explain that he doesn’t put away anything breakable (does that even matter?!)!!
There weren’t any bad feelings on my part, really, but that’s only because I don’t feel bad about having M. do his “chores”. We don’t force the issue and praise him lavishly when he does help. It’s not as if we’re taking away toys if he doesn’t help or anything! Maybe 3 is too young for some kids, but my kid needs constant stimulation we’re learning, so if a chore or 2 is the answer, then that’s what works for us. Thanks for your concern, but no thanks! Got this one covered. 🙂
I’m teaching myself how to use Photoshop Brushes (the new header at the top is an example). I’ll probably be switching up my theme for awhile until I get one I really like. My options are somewhat limited with the themes available, but I’m too lazy to run my own blog site. (Ok, not so much lazy as severely lacking in time).
I spent a few hours away from home tonight – got my hair cut and hi-lighted. Ahhhhh! Revitalizing – not only the alone time, but the hair that helps the ‘ol self-esteem. I even listened to Cosmo radio, which is such a young, single gal kind of program [they were talking about magic numbers tonight and whether women lie to their girlfriends about it or just to men]. But it was fun and they play good music, too. :mrgreen: So now I’m sporting some fresh caramel and reddish hi-lights and less hair. Makes a girl feel lighter all over!
The boys were good today – we were all silly and I even got them both in my bed for about 10 minutes before they insisted on going downstairs! WOOT! We were working on Valentines and photos and then…well, I don’t know, but I do know we played all day, but did nothing more specific. I do recall dancing to Hot Chocolate from Polar Express and being exhausted thereafter!!
Off to read some before sleepy time. Cheesy romance or Princess Diana book? Hmmm…..
Wife. Mom. Cancer Fighter. Friend. Business Owner. I believe life is short, some things just are what they are, and that there are very few problems that laughter won't solve or at least make better. 
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
You\'re so much nicer than I am. I would have been tempted to say \" You think 3 is too young? I don\'t think I asked you!\"
You’re so much nicer than I am.
I would have been tempted to say ” You think 3 is too young? I don’t think I asked you!”
Funny how people feel the need to put their 2 cents in at all times like that. There is absolutely nothing wrong with you letting M. help out around the house. It\'s called \"BUILDING SELF ESTEEM\" !!! Three is a tough age for wanting to do things by themselves. So whatever little tasks you can give him to do, he will love and will give him pride to know he can do it himself. I am sure you don\'t make him do it every day, nor do you withhold other things if he doesn\'t get his \"chores\" done. But you are doing a worthy thing in letting him explore his capabilities and also in setting an example that everyone is expected to help out around the house. Great work lady!
Funny how people feel the need to put their 2 cents in at all times like that. There is absolutely nothing wrong with you letting M. help out around the house. It’s called “BUILDING SELF ESTEEM” !!! Three is a tough age for wanting to do things by themselves. So whatever little tasks you can give him to do, he will love and will give him pride to know he can do it himself. I am sure you don’t make him do it every day, nor do you withhold other things if he doesn’t get his “chores” done. But you are doing a worthy thing in letting him explore his capabilities and also in setting an example that everyone is expected to help out around the house. Great work lady!