Let's Make A Deal

One of the things that tops Ryan's list of things he LEAST likes to do is make his lunch for school. I started the year making my kid's lunches but with a new baby I no longer had the time or energy for one more thing. So I turned it over for them to do. I occasionally hear groans when I remind the kids that they need to make their lunch, but for the most part they have accepted it as their responsibility.

Yesterday, I overhear Ryan complaining about making his lunch and Kelsey dragging her feet with the dishes. The next thing I know Kelsey and Ryan have made a deal. If Kelsey made Ryan's lunch he would do the dishes for her the following night. I don't give the kids the chore (joy) of washing dishes until they turn 8 years old. I think that's when they become responsible enough to do it properly. Plus, you have to make them want to do it. "Nope, sorry, you have to wait until your 8." Kelsey has been doing dishes for 5 years now and she knows a good deal when she hears one. 1 small measly sandwich verses a family of 6's dinner dishes. She could hardly contain her excitement (which she had to do in case Ryan figured out he was being taken)

The next night Ryan couldn't wait to do the dishes. He did a great job and seemed to have fun doing it. I'm not sure I'll let them deal again. The first one worked out pretty good but I know from experience that that probably won't happen again.