Teach in the GREEN ZONE

Usually, we have a challenging behavior happen... and that's the moment we use to have a stern talk, a lecture, an explanation or a push toward empathy. Nothing wrong with that, it's actually amazing we care enough to try and teach our children right from wrong.

BUT, if we rearrange the timing of our teaching, we may be able to get through these challenging behaviors with much more ease, less monologues... and with clear boundaries.

There are two reasons why this is NOT the most effective time to teach.

1. It can be reinforcing to give this much attention to challenging behavior

2. they are not in the emotional state to be receptive to any teaching

But mostly watch my video to understand, HOW (and when) to teach effectively, but still enforce your limits.

Come Follow Me "Remodel"

As we are studying the New Testament as a family this year... we were struggling to "get to it" each week. I realized we were complicating it. Having to gather materials, bring them all downstairs... sit in a circle and make it work with dad's work schedule.

A simple "remodel" to the kitchen has made come follow me accessible, simple and integrated into our everyday life.

Our prophet promises, "The new home-centered, Church-supported integrated curriculum has the potential to unleash the power of families, as each family follows through conscientiously and carefully to transform their home into a sanctuary of faith. I promise that as you diligently work to remodel your home into a center of gospel learning, over time your Sabbath days will truly be a delight. Your children will be excited to learn and to live the Savior’s teachings, and the influence of the adversary in your life and in your home will decrease. Changes in your family will be dramatic and sustaining."

I can't think of anything better than light and peace and love through Christ while raising our innocent children in such an evil world.

As I reread the quote, I knew it was time to literally “remodel“ my home. And create a hub for our Come Follow Me studies.

DETAILS

Basket on the table holds

Scriptures
Come Follow Me Manual
Lesson materials that I print off from https://www.loveprayteach.com/
Crayons & any other materials for the week

Bulletin Board

Weekly Readings for the Month
Temple Heading (to write next temple visit)
Service Heading (to write service focus)
Lesson Plan from https://www.loveprayteach.com/
Pictures of Lesson topic and Jesus printed or taken from Ensign

Clothespin String

Activities from past weeks hung up as reminders

Come Follow Me Reflection Board from www.ellieavenue.com

It was a simple, but very impactful transformation in my kitchen.

Child DevelopmentLauren PaceJune 23, 2019church, christ-centered home, come follow meComment

Reframe Behavior

I presented this graphic at the beginning of the parenting challenge on my instagram

Do you notice anything change with your relationship, or with your child's behavior when you are more purposeful in your toys, play and time together?

Behavior is a fascinating topic to study.

We usually look at behavior to notice WHAT is happening.

Are they hitting? Talking back? Fighting with siblings? Tattle-telling? Whining? Refusing to play independently?

When really the WHAT is just the tip of the iceberg.

Child DevelopmentLauren PaceJune 19, 2019xoplaychallenge, learn through play, Challenging BehaviorComment

Get OUT Together (start by making a bucket list together)

I am super excited about summertime. But it’s also not a ton different because my kids aren’t in school yet. The Pace of things definitely changes and I want to make sure we are unplugged and present with each other as much as possible.

So the challenge today is CREATE A SUMMER BUCKET LIST. What are some things you are going to get out and do together this summer. Show me your lists!

Below I’ve attached an editable document so that you can create your own checklist for summertime.

Child Development, Learn Through PlayLauren PaceJune 18, 2019xoplaychallenge, outdoor playComment

Make ROUTINES into PLAY

I also like to give him FULL ACCESS to all my safe cleaning supplies. Today I shared some “clean“ cleaning recipes above, but mostly I use a spray bottle of water and Norwex Microfiber clothes. I have a kids set that includes on for windows/mirrors, one for dusting and one for all surfaces. It hangs on his art shelf downstairs right next to his mop and broom from Melissa and Doug.

This boy clears his spot every night after dinner. Wipes his table and chair and then continues to empty the bottle by spraying and cleaning the cupboards, floor and dogs.

I love including him in the routines because even if I didn’t have the change to build a castle with him, I spent the day involving him and sharing my world with him.

Child Development, Learn Through PlayLauren PaceJune 17, 2019xoplaychallenge, learn through play, toysComment

Encourage Reading with Your Kids

Child Development, Learn Through PlayLauren PaceJune 16, 2019toys, books, readingComment