Saying "Thank You" to your kids...

Regardless of how well we plan for optimum order, our lives seem to run non-stop in the fast lane.
As a result, we can easily forget the small things. Like saying thank you to our children. I loose count when I think of how often I've been rushing and have asked my son (in a hurried and anxious voice), to help me with my phone because it's not working right, or to get this out of the car for me, or run upstairs for my purse... Now he may move a little slower than I'd like him to but he typically responds without a complaint. I do manage however, to always say thank you. It lets him know I appreciate his help.

Children are not our slaves to do the mundane things we don't want to do and they are not our personal couriers to run at our beck and call when they too have had a long, tiring day. Don't take advantage of your children simply because your are tired and because you are in charge. If you ask them to do something for you, let them know how much you appreciate their help. Say a kind thank you (always) and of course, a "just because" treat every now and then would make them feel valued and respected, and eager to help again!