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Back To the Basics

One of the values that intrigues me when I see it in others is when people do more than what's expected. An extra-ordinary attitude draws attention! People take notice and love to be around others with this attitude. Traits like seeing what needs to be done and doing it (without being told) are things I want to instill in my children and also grow in and practice myself..
Someone recently shared their "house rules":

If it’s broken, fix it.
If it’s empty, fill it up.
If it’s open, shut it.
If it’s out, put it away.
If it’s messy, clean it up.
If you can’t, then report it.

Those are some simple, but great guidelines for families to practice day in and day out. This type of training helps children to learn that they don't have to be asked in order to do a job, hopefully it is a habit that is ingrained and will be practiced at home, school, church and work.

Practicing things like this will help children think outside of their little box and discover that they have a responsibility to themselves and to the family. They can contribute to family life by just seeing something that needs to be done and doing it.

Later in life, this is the type of thing that makes a valuable employee. Besides things like this being plain old good manners, they can help shape and form those children into responsible and outstanding adults!
I think these need to go on our refrigerator!

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Comments

  1. SusannahJuly 20, 2010 at 2:22 PM

    A terrific summary for kids--and adults. Reminds me of all those great values my son (and husband) learned through the Boy Scouts. Acts of service don't come naturally to most of us! ღ

    ReplyDelete
  2. Miss DebbieJuly 20, 2010 at 7:13 PM

    This past week, at my dad's, it seemed the same couple of people were doing all the kitchen duty. Then, one of the children asked one of the "helpers" if she was the housekeeper!! After that, the kitchen was overflowing with people lending a hand. Out of the mouth of babes....

    ReplyDelete
  3. MichaJuly 21, 2010 at 1:49 AM

    That is a great list. In fact I am going to type up a copy to put it up at work!

    ReplyDelete

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