In my typical fashion, I have made us a chart. My children thrive with a sense of order. Fighting is minimized. With the expectation set, they quickly accomplish their tasks with satisfaction instead of bemoaning. I am enjoying our mornings of piano, reading and 'school' workbooks. Each boy makes beds without being asked, empties the dishwasher, and even brushes their teeth!
Michael is loving his workbook. Each day he is compelled to do a few extra pages.
Jacob is excited with learning his first piano songs. He can now "read" a couple songs on his own with finger numbering.
Scotty is trying it all out - making up his own piano songs, crying when they don't sound like Michael. Coloring during workbook time. Causing a bit of chaos at scripture time.
We are limiting video game time and TV time. Each boy gets a total of 2 hours in the entire day. Jacob wakes up and immediately begins one of these. He cannot postpone any enjoyment. Michael judiciously spreads his out in small increments - making sure he has time for one longer item after lunch. It reminds me of the classic Stanford child development "Marshmallow Experiment". Delayed gratification. Jacob is the child that would eat his marshmallow immediately. Michael would save it.
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