Magic Words

I am tired of hearing groans and witnessing grudging half-done work when I assign chores. We will see if this works. Notice the subtle emphasis that this is work they are doing for the FAMILY and not just to “help Mom” as if the laundry and dishes are all mine.

Update: after a week:

Zeek and Skeeter are using the magic words daily, usually without me prompting them.

The girls don’t use the magic words, But they are slightly more willing to do chores just to help out anyway.

Verdict: this has given me a way to address a problem with positive speech, and it may not be perfect, but it the best system I’ve used so far.

Important: every time the kids use the magic words, I respond to them by saying, “Oh I love to hear you say that!”