1. For young children, have a low cabinet shelf containing their "supplies."-cereal in a small container they can pour or scoop from, their bowl, cups, spoons, snacks they are allowed to have.

2. In the refrigerator, keep supplies on a low shelf-a small pitcher of water, milk or other drinks. A container with refrigerated snacks.

3. The dishwasher door (when opened makes an excellent space for a young child to pour and prepare food.

4. Children can help choose the lunch items they want to pack or from the lunch menu.

1. Allow the child to gain more freedom in the kitchen but maintain a similar routine of keeping their foods and supplies within reach.

2. Children can also begin to read labels at home or the store to determine nutritional values of the food they choose.

3. Help with food preparation and cooking is important.

4. Children can begin preparation of their lunch for the next day with supervision and guidance. They can read the lunch menu and select days they want to buy lunch.

1. Children of this age are ready to begin cooking projects at home with less supervision. Of course, if they are using the stove or sharp instruments, adult supervision is necessary.

2. Now is a good time for your child to invite friends over for a party where he or she prepares the food, sets the tables, chooses the decorations etc.

3. Children can be responsible for packing their own lunch or selecting from the lunch menu. A good math lesson is totaling the amount due for lunches and requesting the check from mom or dad.

Children of this age can take more responsibility for sorting and putting away laundry.

By 10 years old, children can learn to use the washing machine and do their own laundry-as they grow into teenage years this can alleviate the-"where's my blue shirt" syndrome!

1. Children should have a stool so they can reach the sink and toilet.

2. Toothbrush and toothpaste should be easy to use and reach.

3. A small basket with necessary items for simple hygiene can be placed on a cabinet shelf so the child can reach and use it.

4. Helping to clean the bathroom is necessary for the child to take ownership in what belongs to them.

5. Bathtub toys should be organized in containers so the child can easily put them away or take them out.

Continue with the same ideas as for the young child but give the child increasing independence in the bathroom.

A daily checklist of hygienic care can be added to the environment:

Brush teeth
Wash face
Take a bath
Wash hair
Etc.

As children approach puberty; they need lessons in proper hygienic care.

Other supplies may need to be added to their "kit" in the bathroom. Deodorant, pads for girls, etc.

By this age, children should be able to manage their own bath and care.

A checklist is still helpful or a set of 3X5 cards with each task written on one card as a reminder.

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CHOICES
Giving choices is a very important part of a democratic parenting style

1. Choices should be limited to 2- "Do you want to go to bed in 10 minutes or in 5 minutes?"

2. Would you like 1 pancake or 2 pancakes?

3. Allow the child to choose because this gives them a sense of control. It is often a good way to avoid power struggles.

THERE IS NO CHOICE IN A DANGEROUS SITUATION!

Choices can be more liberal. For instance, you may have a discussion about bedtime -"Would you like to have a bedtime of 8PM or 8:15 PM?"

Giving the child the opportunity to choose helps them own the situation when questions arise.

Choices continue to be the foundation of a good democratic parenting style however, there are some things about which there can be no choice-determine what those non-negotiable items are and be sure your child understands the limits.

Giving choices builds trust for later years.