Do you say the same things over and over again? I feel like burning a CD of myself saying key items and then when the occasion arises just push the button and go to that track.
It would be things like:
Pick up your dirty clothes and put them in the basket?
Practice your instrument!
Put your dirty dishes in the sink
Well, you get the point. Of course I’d have a CD just for the husband as well- LOL! Anyway, I hate it. I hate the repetition. I hate being the bad guy. I hate myself at the end of the day when I realize that I forgot to remind someone to do something and now it’s too late. The teachers give you the dirty look. I know what they are thinking. It’s not the child’s fault this parent is not involved. Yuck! So, I’m trying to put some of the responsibility back into my kids hands. Remember? This is the Summer of independence! So, here is my plan. I bought these dry erase boards at Target for a dollar.
I bought each boy their own checklist. I explained to them that each day they have responsibilities that they need to complete without me asking them. Once they finish each one they can check it off. They can do these tasks whenever they like during the day. My oldest son was actually beyond excited! He also has Aspergers and loves routine. He was more than happy to complete his tasks. This is the first time that I didn’t have to fight him to practice piano. He told me he was going to do it! Success!
My youngest wanted to know what would happen if he didn’t complete all the tasks on his list. Smart boy. I explained that this was his responsibility and that while he wouldn’t get “in trouble” he wouldn’t be doing his share of work. He walked up to the chart and told me, ” If I put a “C” next to something that means I’m working on it. Then I will check it. Okay. Is this going to work? Then I found him doing this:
He was reading. I didn’t ask him, I didn’t tell him, and I wasn’t sitting with him! It was on the list and he wanted to check it off. I think I have hope here! Maybe I can give up a few key phrases during the day. I hope. I have a dream of not being a nag. Hopefully someday it will come true. Keep your fingers crossed.
Michelle Christiansen says
keepin’ my fingers crossed for ya too 😉