For one reason or another, I do most of the domestic stuff around the house these days. I’ve tried leading by example, but given the example I give is that mainly I hate housework, perhaps it’s not that surprising that the older children tend not to join in.
Big is better than small. Though this weekend when I was away he voluntarily took over feeding the cat, which was nice. It’s not exactly a massive contribution though, and we decided a little more was needed. So last night we had a long and involved discussion on rights and privileges and pointed out tasks around the house that need to be done if certain people (children) want to be playing on computers the next day.
It didn’t sink in. So today I again did the shopping, washing, cooking and washing up, juggling it with chauffeuring to swimming lessons, answering business emails, finishing a book and taking part in a google hangout with an author. Plus of course nappy changing, baby bathing and feeding and reading to the toddler.
Tonight I got a bit cross. I was coping with the washing up, but discovering both big children had left rubbish on the table instead of putting it in the bin was pretty much the last straw and the only reason I didn’t turn into shouty Mummy was because the cold I’ve got has removed my ability to shout.
I was able to be firm however, and I hope tomorrow will be different.
Oh and after dinner I voted. Took big with me and had an involved discussion about the American electoral system on the way. Education doesn’t only happen in daylight. Though sometimes I kind of wish it did.
Yawn.
Leave a Reply