Having this “caretaking” personality I have, it’s very difficult to shift the load of responsibility on to others, when my instinct, is to automatically just do it myself.
It’s faster, efficient, keeps me feeling fulfilled, needed, important, and having a purpose.
But, I know that, in order to raise self-sufficient children, who will eventually become adults, walking on this earth, I need to learn to let go.
So.. the challenge for the remainder of my parenting these under-age children, is to teach them to handle things on their own.
We will start small. Making their own breakfast in the mornings.
They do have chores that they are expected to do in the afternoons, and that started the first week of school. This wasn’t hard to implement, because my step-sister manages this portion of the afternoon.
But, with me, the kids just KNOW I am going to do these things FOR them, so why should they bother getting up and getting their bowl, spoon, milk and cereal for themselves.
I am so used to this routine, as are they…
Why the sudden change? They resisted strongly this morning, but I made sure to make it very clear, the expectation going forward, starting today.
They will make their own breakfast and their own lunches for school.
This is not a huge demanding task, but to them, it’s the end of the world as they know it.
One of the kids went to school STARVING. I made sure to text the teacher, but she and I talked on the phone, and she said he eats the school breakfast every single day, despite having breakfast at home. I should not feel guilty at all.
So.. I won’t.
This mom is fed up with some things, and independence is key in life, so here we go.
I’m up for the challenge, no matter the push back I receive.
At least I’ll be receiving something.. hahahaha
All in a Day 