To make mealtimes run as smoothly as possible, I have assigned each of my children a “Before Meal” job and an “After Meal” job. This allows them to be trained and share in the load at the same time. Before meals, one child gets out cups and pours the drinks, another gets out plates, another sets the silverware, and one gets out bibs. After meals, one child wipes the table, another sweeps or dust-busts the floor, another helps me empty and load the dishwasher, and another wipes off the chairs. While the children are all busy with their tasks, I am free to clean up the dishes, clear the counters and wipe them down without having to worry about the rest. The children have been trained well in their duties and have truly become great helpers to me.




