Procedures Week

This week I have been introducing the kids to our new schedule, chores, behavior expectations, etc. Trying to get them ready to start school next week with little to no hiccups. The biggest thing we have been practicing this week is getting up on their own, eating breakfast, and getting their jobs done by 8:30. Doesn't seem like a big deal, but rushing and nagging don't really set the tone for a good day. So far this week, they have both showed wonderful self-discipline in this area.

I have also been taking them through their new chores for the year and using this week to teach them anything new they need to know so that they will be able to complete their chores independently. Caleb (2 years old) also has a new chore chart. He is enjoying being a "big boy" too! His favorite new chore is to feed our dog, fish, and frog. He is an animal lover so this is right down his alley.

We started the points system this week as well, and the kids are responding to that wonderfully. Just yesterday I was able to sit down with Isaac after an incident and have a calm conversation. Usually disciplining him can be very emotionally charged and honestly unproductive. But using our new strategies, I was able to not lecture at him but instead talk with him. He wrote in his behavior notebook. (they have to describe the incident, reflect on what they should have done, and write a verse related to the area of difficulty) We had a great conversation about self-control and forgiveness. I am hopeful that the behavior issues will lessen this year as my kids continue to grow and mature.

I am ready to start our new school year but I will admit I am a little nervous. We have a lot of curriculum to get through. Our school day used to end by lunch or a little after. This year we will not end until 4:00. And since I am pregnant I usually tire out by mid-day and need to rest. Don't know if I will have time to do that now. The Lord will carry me through! I am confident in that!

T-minus 4 days until our 2012-13 school year! It's going to be a great one!