Habit training Is Crucial

With the addition of a 3rd child into our homeschool, I have realized that habit training has slacked in our homeschool and family for that matter.  Habit training helps everything run smoother and easier in a family that is together as much as we are on a daily basis.  Charlotte Mason knew this and made it a priority in her lessons.  Charlotte Mason in the City did a phenomenal post on it last  year.  She explains it in Charlotte Mason terms far better than I ever could.

The habit we have fallen into is to wait until Mom (aka me) tells me to do it. You don't have to necessarily ne do it on the first reminder either. Mom will continue to remind you with her tone reaching a certain stressed out level.  At that point, it is in your best interest to do it and bring Mom back off the edge.  Really, all one needs to do is listen to the rising tone of Mom's voice then move at the absolute last moment.  Sounds like a great habit for children but not for Mom.  Alas, it is the habit that Mom taught so she only has herself to blame here.

All is not lost though.  Habits can be changed although not overnight.  Just like this particular bad habit was not learned overnight, it can not be unlearned overnight.  Mom must start small in making changes or everyone will get stressed.  Mom must remember to have patience in this instance.  Slow and steady wins the race.  Mom needs to change as well.  Her changes will spur on the children's changes.  Sort of like a chain reaction if you will.

We will start with transferring responsibility for independent work completion to the children. A strong work ethic is a fantastic life skill to possess.  One that will pay dividends not only in our homeschool but in their entire lives.

 Logan has this concept.  He just needs to find his motivation to get it all done.  As in , the consequence for not finishing has to be uncomfortable enough to make him want to finish.  Plain and simple.

Madison has never been responsible for this.  But she is finishing the fifth grade.  In January, she will be starting middle school.  Sniff, sniff, how is that possible?  This means that I can't just hand it over.  I must gradually transfer responsibility over to her, one lesson at a time.  First up, dance practice.  Why that one you ask?  Because the consequences will be consistent , severe and not from me if she doesn't do it.  A great life lesson.

JoJo is not ready at all.  We have other habits to work on with him that are far more pressing at the moment. That's ok too.  If the other 2 are handling their independent work, that frees  me up to work with him.

Again, it will not happen overnight.  It will not be easy.  It will not happen quickly.  But it will happen and this family will be better off for it.  That will make it all worthwhile!  Or we will die trying.  Let's hope that doesn't happen anytime soon.   Tell me friend, what habits are you working on with your family?