The Rules

I get so tickled at my wonderful husband. Our house stays in what seems like utter chaos all the time. Between both of us working our DS(8) and DD (6), a puppy and three cats there is always a mess somewhere.

I will admit that we did not do our kids any favors when they were little because it was easier to clean up their messes than to make them do it.. So, two years ago when I went back to work full time the house crashed and burned....Guess who had been doing most of the picking up????

Back to my dear husband. Last week he had enough of the house being a mess so he came up with the rules!!!

They are as follows:

1. If you get it out, you put it up. This includes toys, books, material for homework (pencils, paper, markers, etc)

2. Empty cups go in the kitchen beside the sink Not on the table or the computer desk.

3. If you turn it on, you turn it off (lights, and TV)

4. If it's trash throw it away in the trash can WITH a bag in it.
If there isn't a bag, tell Dad or mom and one of us will get a bag.

5. Dirty clothes go in the dirty clothes basket, NOT on the floor..Socks are clothes!!!

6. When getting a snack, if you empty a box or unwrap something, throw the empty box and or wrap away.

7. Shoes go in the shoe basket, not in the floor

8. If you spill something, clean it up, if you need help ask.

9. If Jack (our puppy) makes a mess clean it up, if you need help ask.

10. After you've eaten supper and have been excused from the table, take your plate, spoon, fork, and cup and place it beside the sink in the kitchen.

These rules were explained along with consequences at a family meeting. We have had one week of THE RULES and the difference was amazing..The house was pretty much in order...the only rule not being constantly followed was #5. We are working on that one.

They also did not whine and complain about picking up the living room today because there wasn't a lot left to do...