If you want Mason to do something for you, all you have to do it give him the right incentive. He could move heaven or earth! He found an airplane calendar that I bought that was half price. He wondered who it was for? Of course it was for him, but I was saving it for a possible birthday present. He was really excited with his sparkling eyes and I just wanted to give it to him, but new that wouldn’t be the best parenting – giving a kid something just because he wants it.
I noticed that my walkway needed to be shoveled – this is his job anyway, but it isn’t his favorite. I came up with a plan – “Mason, every time you shovel the sidewalk you can have 2 airplanes from the calendar.” He was so excited he ran to get his shovel barely stopping to get his shoes on. He worked so fast I couldn’t believe it! He was so happy to get his airplanes…and by then he really DESERVED them.
I have heard his voice longingly looking out the window wondering when it was going to snow again….
Comments:
Grandma and grandpa Parker said…
Motivation is the key to teaching. Mason doesn’t mind hard work anyway. He probably enjoyed doing the walk and getting the paper planes.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009 3:46:20 PM
Susan said…
I love paper airplanes too. I had a white wing collection once, but it went the way of most of my “things!”
Thursday, January 15, 2009 11:07:51 AM