Keepin' the 2-year-old focused!

Sorry I fail at writing blogs… I really am not the world’s best writer and I typically leave that department to my mother.  Once I get going I’m usually fine (at least I’m counting on that happening in this post!)

I’ve learned to make life a game.  In my house we all help with chores every day and the littlest kids, Scout and Curly, are in charge of unloading the dishwasher(s).  In reality this chore takes approximately 8 minutes, but they can drag it out to 8 hours on any given day!  So in order to encourage them to start and finish their job I have devised games that keep them motivated and focused on the task at hand.  The four games are:

Time Me! – I count as they put each item away.  This game works for ANY chore and is ridiculously motivating. 

Secret Agent- Standing flat against the wall, rolling on the ground, and peeking around the corners.  This game takes a bit longer, but they love it and really get into it!

Color Me ______! – When unloading the dishwasher they have to put away all items that are a certain color (i.e. all the blue objects) and then either I guess what color it was or I tell them if they put away the mystery color I was thinking of.  This one also reinforces colors which is always a bonus.

Classifying Cups and Bowls- Similar to the color game, they put away all the items that are the same.  (i.e. cups, bowls, spoons, etc)

Well.  Those are my secrets.  (: It makes my life a lot easier when they are happy and motivated to do their chores.  If you have any other ideas for a good Job Game, let me know! (: I always like comin’ up with new ones to shake things up.

Peace out.

~Teach