This is part of the reason the United States is turning out the way it has; as stated in the beginning of the video ALOT of people don’t give their kids chores and responsibilities. I was one of those kids and once I married and started my family I realized how far behind I was because I didn’t know how to clean or have the self discipline to do things I didn’t want to do. I still struggle with consistency but I’m trying to teach my kids differently. Thank you for this video!
I’m just watching this video now - and I 100% agree with you regarding chores and honestly - it’s 100% what’s wrong with this country! Too many people coddle their kids these days. Most don’t know where their food comes from or understand that in order for the lawn to get mowed or the driveway to get shoveled SOMEONE HAS TO DO IT. It’s part of my disgust with the “everyone gets a participation trophy” so NO ONE feels left out. BOLOGNA. Those that work hard recoup the benefits!! And that’s what this country needs to get back to - to teach our children that they need to work for and earn everything in life! I commend you for the chores for the children!! God bless!
Yes and *multiple* generations of parents are guilty of this. They've also been failing to teach their children how to be parents. "Children are a map of their parents," regardless of age.
My mother was raised in the mountains of Va. she was born in 1918 and was a hard worker. I followed her around when I was a preschooler watching what she did and how she did things, and later when I was 6 began to help with the laundry on a wringer washer with her supervision doing what I could at my size. When I got to about 10 I did all the laundry for her including hanging out the clothes on the line, bringing them in and folding them and putting them away.. As a teenager she never had to ask me to help, I would see her starting a chore and would just jump in and help without her asking me to. As a married young lady if I went to visit her it was the same, we would visit while we did her work if that was what she was doing at the time. The only thing she wanted no help with was cooking, that was her thing and I knew she wanted peace and quiet and no help with that, however, I would clear the table and help with clean up after we ate. When I was 10 momma went to the hospital for 21 days. Mom always said she came home to a clean house with even the laundry all done when she was dismissed from the hospital. There were no chores to be done when she came home that day. Mom talked about how well I had done until she passed away. I feel good about the way I helped and it was all because I had learned the routine of what needed to be done by watching what was needed when I was very small. I never had assigned chores because she knew that I was one of those kids who would see what needed doing and just do it right then. I feed the chickens and gathered the eggs, watered the cows, fed the dog and cat without even being assigned those chores. At seven I just knew that was the things I could do that would save momma time around the house. It did not hurt me to help and now at 72 I can look back and feel good about making moms life a bit easier. Later when I became a nurse I did the same just doing what was need whether it was "my job" or not.
We adopted 5 children. We let the oldest 2 go to school 6 months after they arrived. They lasted 5 months. We were appalled at what they were learning and the sudden changes in public schools with regard to gender identity. We took them out, sold our beautiful property, moved to an old, run down homestead and started growing all our food with 0 experience. They LOVE it. They get up before me and see to the chickens, rabbits, sheep and pigs. They love responsibility and the privilege of all that God has given them. They have their challenging days too but overall they are very happy kids, 3 years in!
Children have to learn to work just like they learn to read, write, and every other learned skill! If you start early they will never know the difference and it will run smoothly! Work with your child and set a good example! This is the best advice ever!
Ruthann, I watched this video in amazement! I agree with you spot on. I am 78 and had many chores to do mainly when weekends came my sis and I had to clean house and do laundry, ie hang out laundry using clothes lines and clothes pins. Then take down and fold or iron laundry. All chores had to be done BEFORE we could go out Saturday night, etc. No problem, we did our chores so we could go have fun. NO ARGUING EVER! Wonderful time to grow up!!
Girl, you are driven . If only this world had even 2% like you it would be a wonderful place. And you said you had an 8th grade education. You are smarter than college professors in the ways of real life…kudos!
Don't know why someone would call you uneducated. You are one of the most educated persons I know. Just because you didn't sit in a school classroom for x number of years means nothing. You share more knowledge than most individuals will ever have about real life. Thank you for your casual and real approach to teaching. You do a fantastic job!!!
If a child can drop a toy he can pick it up. If he can dress himself, he can bring clothing to the laundry room and put it away. You are correct in your approach. I raised my children in the city. They had chores and kept doing them and we traded them around on a quarterly basis so you weren't stuck with something you hated for more than a 3 month stretch. I found that taking the time when they were young, made my life easier when they became older. I had a checklist in the kitchen and bathroom on what needed to be done to be acceptably clean. Every child did every chore on rotation. They are awesomely well respected and functioning adults now raising my grandchildren. They have told me they're glad they were raised the way they were because the skills and ability to.push through has helped them succeed in life. I'm glad you wrote the book!
Awesome to see a young mother so invested in her family and in particular her children. I can’t believe someone would question or declare that a child will do his or her chores on their own. This cannot be a parent or one with any understanding. Your children will believe they belong and will also be invested in your family unit. Sweet!
What I’ve noticed implementing chores with my children are they actually enjoy being a part of taking care of the home because when it’s all done we get to sit back and enjoy our work. They may balk at first, but I turn on some wholesome Pandora music on the TV and we light candles and we all clean together. I’m also usually cooking something yummy on the stove so we get to enjoy eating it in our clean home. It’s truly amazing how kids will engage when the parents show it as a blessing instead of as a chore that’s no fun. Payment isn’t even expected when we make it an experience like this. They actually want to do it.
I’m am new to your channel and I couldn’t agree more. I’m a New York mom and I raised all three of my sons the same way and they are all successful adults. I always told myself I’m not raising little boys I’m raising future men. I took a lot of heat from parents around me who felt I was too harsh, but my children will tell you I have never raised my voice to them and I have never had to severely punish them. Natural consequences is a wonderful teacher.
I couldn't agree more. My husband's philosophy was you don't start rising children when they are teenagers you start when they are toddlers. As the lady above said she wasn't raising little boys she was raising future men.
Children only doing chores when they want or choose on their own? Would be *never* at my house! Love your insights and wisdom. Even we grandparents can learn new ways to teach “new dogs” new tricks!! 😊 🐶
Absolutely! Though not Amish or Minnonite I was raised on a small family farm. We had a dairy where we hand milked +/- 6-8 cows morning & night, there were also horses, hogs, & 50-60 head of beef cattle to be fed. We raise marketable produce like tobacco, potatoes, & green beans, There was also hay & silage to put up, & we grew cane to make molasses. I'm so thankful that I was taught responsibility, accountability, & common sense. It has stood me in good stead.
I appreciate yours and Elvins style of parenting. Everyone in a family has a responsibility to do their part to help a family function. Children raised in this manner make better partners, and workers in society. They build self confidence and self esteem because they are engaged in life and learning life skills that will aid them through out life. Thank you for your diligence in training your children.
I was raised up on a small homestead with a big garden plus a few acres of olives, and was doing chores at my parents' knees as soon as I could hold a tool or pick up a bucket. I was taught to feed and care for that which feeds us bf we feed ourselves, bc that is showing gratitude for what they will give us and it makes them joyful. Ever see a hen find fresh pumpkin guts in the feed pan or a duck find his baby pool freshened in the morning? It's a party! It was interesting to discuss our chore/business report over breakfast. My dad always asked when I thought a rabbit was going to litter or which hen was setting a brood and how was she looking (animal husbandry lessons over oatmeal), how many dozen eggs we'd have available to sell that day. Did I think some early turnips and beets could be thinned for dinner tonight? He was very attentive to my opinions and consequently, I was very invested in what came to the table and what we could make a profit off/save by not having to buy from others. If I didn't know something, it went on my list of stuff he could show me the next morning... quality father/daughter learning time that was a real pleasure. If he didn't have an answer to a question, we'd learn it together and figure out how to implement that. Consequences came in the form of tending my little sister (a difficult dispositioned, angelic looking absolute little terrorist) so my mom had more time for her own chores and projects, unfettered. I learned to keep my attitude in check and that it's more enjoyable to be uncomplaining than it was to get a chronically grumpy baby/toddler to cooperate. LOL!
I find it hilarious that people think kids will do chores when they are ready. that does NOT happen. I was raised on a small family farm and we did the same thing, not to your level, however. We always thought that we fed the animals because they can't feed themselves. We chose them, they did not choose us. I think it's wonderful what you are teaching your children, all of it! It is a different life if you live in the city and don't have animals to take care of, are not raising their own food (gardening), what they get is in the stores. People have no idea how much work is involved in the "production" of food. Well, I look forward to your youtube videos and continue to learn. Thank you.
I've just started following this channel for a week. I'm amazed at your brilliance. I'm retired and old and not in the game anymore, still cooking, making everything from scratch, canning and gardening etc, but you have me amazed at your natural brilliance
I one hundred percent agree!, I have done my share of gardening housekeeping, bringing up my two children but this woman is amazing and runs circles around me. I wish I knew half of the skills that she does, and how well adjusted her children are.❤
I love this approach. It isn't about "forcing" or "punishment", it is about learning, skill building, curiousity, cooperation, accountability, responsibility, and self-discipline according to the child's age and, a child's previous learning.
I was raised doing chores before catching the bus in the morning and doing chores after school. Our animal's had to be fed and watered before we went to school. That was normal way of life. Now day's kids don't know what chores are. I'm so proud growing up the way my brother's and myself grew up. So me personally am proud of how you raise your children. Keep up the good work mom..
My parents' way of giving us chores was to write weekly chores on paper and for every chore we did, we were told to put a hash mark by our name. At the end of the month, my father would give a dollar for every hash mark. We were never shown how to do the chores, were yelled at when we did a task incorrectly (and still were not shown or guided), and yet, when the hash marks were counted and someone did hardly anything, we were not disciplined until our lack of experience showed and then we were discouraged, belittled and hit. There was so much consistency, fear, misdirected expectation, and acute lack of guidance. Much of the time, in the event we were asked to do something, we learned thay my mom would just do it for us and then lie and said we did it, because then we could avoid the possible belittlement and pain. Now, at 30, coping with general life is extremely difficult for me. It is embarrassing, frightening...and watching your videos, RuthAnn, is like finally having a parent figure in my life who can guide, correct, and demonstrated unconditional love. Thank you.
As a single mother my children also had chores and were involved with cooking with me...yes Ruth it's life skills ! Self discipline and for a us as family to take care of the home we all live in x it worked well, my children are now adults and keep a good,organised home. Your chore reports are genius x
Wish I saw this when I was raising my boys. I was trying to develop MY skill set instead of their's. To this day, I struggle with procrastination and motivation. My mother was a stay at home mom who was very motivated and organized. Our home ran like a well oiled machine. We did have Saturday chores but I never learned the most important skill of self-discipline. This video is priceless!
I am from the islands and kids are expected to have chores, I thank God every day for that and now living in this country raising three of them and I definitely bringing them up the same.
I feel children need structure and life skills. I fully agree with you, Ruth. I was raised with doing chores and learning life skills. It is so very important in a child's life for survival. And disapline is another thing that kids need to learn so that they are unruly. You and your husband are doing a marvelous job. Just like my parents did with us kids. My mother started teaching all four of us kids how to keep our dresser drawers neat. She did have a problem with Leslie, Kenneth , Keith was a problem, and me , the baby. Mom would dumb is drawers on the floor, and Keith would pick things up, but instead, he would get a large garage bag, and dump all his junck into the large garage bag and then take it down the woods and bury it and then dig it up when he needed something. My mother had a time with him. And he still is a slop to at 68 years old. I think you have a good handle handle on your kids.
It works for teachers too! I had to practice how we handle fire drills, greeting visitors, setting up the desks for different activities, etc... When it wasn't done we had an opportunity to practice again. (One class had 50 minutes worth of fire drill practice before they learned the proper way, but they learned.) You are correct, consistency is the key.
I'm just now staring my homesteading journey at 43. My children are teen - adult age and while I have always given them chores, I have also not given them enough and I am struggling to get either of my boys to be responsible. I wish I had found this earlier in my life. This is such a value for any parent.
this is so similar to the Montessori teaching philosophy that I have used in 30+ years of teaching. Chores are very grounding, center the child, teaches them life skills, develops a sense of community and a sense of responsibility. Kudos!!
It's lovely to see a family working as a family team, it's how I grew up in a large family in Wales 🏴 Uk, in our modern fast moving gadget reliant world, it's no longer the norm for children to learn n to become self reliant, my parent's taught us to cook, clean, look after animals, help our older family members, neighbours & friends. My own four now adult children all had chores growing up & are all now confident, self reliant & teaching my Grandchildren the same values they were. It's a difficult world for parents now especially when the children start school because they are influenced by so many distractions from a more real type of nurturing, so many parents are absent working to fill their homes with unnecessary items or achieve status financially. Nobody ever said the wished they'd spent more time at work, childhood is such a small but important part of a persons long life, it's not to be missed.
Hallo vanuit Nederland, mijn man en ik zijn christen, en wij zijn opgegroeid op een boerderij en fruitbedrijf. Zoals jullie je kinderen opvoeden met het helpen van klusjes, zo zijn wij opgegroeid en dat hebben wij ook zo gedaan met onze 4 kinderen. Wij hebben een melkveebedrijf en er is werk genoeg. Ze hebben geleerd te werken. Wij zijn bevoorrecht dat we ze op deze manier kunnen opvoeden. Daar zijn wij erg dankbaar voor. Ik kijk graag naar je videos. Groet
Who needs Dr Spock ? This IS the most commonsense fabulous kindhearted consistent parenting skills I ever heard. The best-if a child refuses chores they sit till they are ready & bam...more chores to practice ! Then having the children be accountable by giving a chores report is a superb way to give kids freedom & learn responsibility! Ruth, YOU ARE AMAZING ! They should hand this video out to parents at the hospital when they give birth !
Your teaching them live skills. I had chores from 4yrs to now at 62. It’s life. People coddle their children too much these days that’s why there’s no respect they don’t know how to work and I blame it on the parents if everybody was a bit harder on their kids instead of trying to be their best friend but be their parents in the place and that we wouldn’t have the mess we have now work ethic is no more is not taught anymore in our kids
I grew up doing chores on a farm and household chores. It's great teaching and self discipline. It instill not only skills but a work ethic that employers look for.
I appreciate your statement about mothers tending to underestimate their own children's abilities. I've definitely seen this in my own life where another adult has asked my child to do something that I'm sure they're not able to do. I'm always surprised by watching my child rise to the occasion and complete the job that I just knew they weren't able to do. It's a constant pendulum swing between wanting my children to grow and learn new responsibilities but also wanting them to stay babies (or not wanting to admit they're no longer babies).
Thank you for fulfilling your calling. You and your family will be amazed at your rewards in Heaven. Your whole channel is incredible and this particular episode is life changing! Blessings!!!
To the person who said you sound uneducated, you are more educated than most degreed people I know. Most people couldn’t do 1/8 of all you do & all you do is so important. Wish I had had the advice you give on kids when I had young kids. I love watching & LEARNING from you & im 78 yo
I love the chore reports idea 🥰 I never thought of doing something like that. I'm raising independent thinkers and not ones that'll do whatever they are told to do and not think on their own.
It’s good to have a balance in that. While it’s not good to raise robots that never have a voice or thought, but also it’s not good to go to the opposite extreme where they only think for themselves and don’t listen to the wisdom and guidance of the parents. Children have parents because they need to be cared for and taught and trained to be productive adults.
More kids at home should have chores and they might not tell the parents what to do. They would know the value of life. Not handing them everything. You are doing a great job! Keep it up!
This is was the way of life that built our nation...past generations were taught to work for what was wanted or needed...that's what made America strong and resilient. We've lost that drive and the present generation now expects things to be handed to them...that's why you see millennials posting videos in outrage of having to be at work on time or even go to work at all! It's really sad to see the disintegration of our country and I'm so glad to see families like yours continuing to raise their children to appreciate hard work and respect for their parents. Thank you!
Sounds like good parenting to me . I would tell my kids that if they needed something to do I would find something for them . They learned fast to get their chores done then find things to keep themselves busy .
Its funny, my children are grown now, but they remember the chores so much differently than I do. To them it was a time of struggle, but a good time. I remember them as a headache waiting to happen. They remember accomplishment on their part and a memorable experience. I am happy to say they have grown to be adults that I am happy to know.
Chores are great teachers for kids. My kids learned young & were complimented often by other adults. They were proud of themselves when this happened. As adults they have wonderful work ethics. And taught theses same things to their children. Now those grandchildren are getting jobs & their employor is very happy to have them & give them more resposibility & of course more pay than their "friends".
Do people really believe that children should not do chores!?! That’s why our society has become a bunch of entitled and irresponsible adults. Walking around thinking the world owes them a life. It’s just so sad to see what this world has become. I commend you and your husband for teaching your children real life skills. Thank you for sharing your lives with us.
You are a very wise mama!! Our children had chores without being 'paid' and learned to work together, have satisfaction of a job well done and gained many skills. Children that work together will grow up to be great adults. My sons are now in their 40's, both have a servant's heart and are very helpful to me since my husband died. I don't have to ask, they just anticipate. They are a true blessing.
My granddaughter begged to do dishes when she could barely reach the sink. Kids usually Want to help. Good for you for teaching your children life skills!
Ruthanne, you are truly amazing as a mother and teacher. Sure this video will light the fire under some parents on how to teach your children… GOD bless you always.
What wonderful ideas! I have been struggling with my younger children because I was raised where children were to be neither seen nor heard, so I would shoo my younger ones off to play while I did chores. As they got older, I wondered why it was so hard to get them to help out, but I had squashed that early desire to help! We are doing things differently now with the younger ones, but I LOVE the idea of "chore reports" instead of asking them each thing. So much wonderful wisdom! Thank you!! ❤
You are a wonderful teacher. So many adults these days don’t have any life skills. It’s shocking to me how little parenting is utilized in this world today. Praise God you got saved❤❤❤ All children need a sense of purpose and belonging. A good work ethic is learned from parents.
I’m so thankful to have found your videos. I have learned so much and wish I would have known all this over 20+ years ago! You are such and inspirational wise woman! Thank you for sharing your heritage and your family’s life with us! God truly is good and you are so valuable❣️
I WAS RAISED TO WORK, IT MAKES YOU A RESPONSIBLE WORKER WHEN THEY GROW UP.... :) I HAVE PICTURES OF MY CHILDREN COVERED IN FLOUR AS EARLY AS TWO-YEARS OLD. THEY ARE EXCELENT COOKS TODAY!!! GOD BLESS YOU!!!! :)
Your a rock star of a mom and your children are blessed to have you teaching them. I raised 2 boys who we adopted and then their father passed when they where young. They told their friends my mom is a slave driver, chores everyday. How ever now grown,they have thank me for their disciplined childhood and say there kids out there are rotten and how grateful for the way I raised them as a single mom.
I used to say that training children is not only for this life...on earth, but also for training up children to be the best people they can be, have a good heart, loving characters, etc. These are the traits they will take into the next life. There is no finer work than to raise up children for the kingdom of God! I love your whole philosophy and practice around rearing, teaching and training up children. It's not just children who feign incompetence. I've worked with adults who do the same. If I'm not their boss, it isn't my business. When I am the boss, we had some more training.
Wish I would have had this info when we raised our daughters. Such brilliant ideas and simple! Great for developing responsible adults. Gonna buy your ebook and maybe someday I will use with grandchildren or gift to our daughters for their children. Thank you!
Me too!! I wished I had this knowledge when my kids were younger!! They are now all young adults. I think that these are brilliant ideas. Thanks for sharing!
Years ago, I facilitated parenting programs and I based the programs on the concept of what you want your kids to be like at Age 16 - everything you do prior to that is teaching them the skills to develop those abilities and practices. Fantastic video.
Such a great video and teaching!!! Practical and also you explain the reasoning behind your methods. I am a grandma and empty nester and I would recommend these methods to anyone!
I rewarded myself with this video on this dreary, rainy day. I have been saving it because I knew it would make so much sense! I was raised in the Midwest by parents who were raised on farms and lived through the depression. my mom and grandma were the hardest-working ladies I know, but you may have topped them 👏 we also, were required to work alongside them, when there was work to do. I am so thankful, now, because I learned so many useful skills! We have 4 children who KNOW how to work hard; a commodity in society today! Thank you for such valuable content! I have only been subscribed for a short time but have watched almost all of your content. Your approach is SO kind and joyful; it draws a person to you 🥰 And your following has nearly DOUBLED since I found your channel! Congratulations 👍🏻
You are a terrific mom , I wish someone would make this mandatory to be a parent, to watch your video, I am a bus driver and I know what kids get this training and which ones don't, parents now didn't get this training and neither did theirs, I was fortunate to have parents that wanted us to have this training, my dad got a couple cows and chickens ducks and 4 pigs so I would learn how to milk by hand and clean the barn and learn where our food came from. , By the time my little sister came along that life was over so she didn't learn and is not responsible for herself. Doesn't try to be family and help others without something in return. This stuff should be taught in schools. I just recently found your videos and I love them, you have a beautiful family. I wish I lived closer so I could learn hands on. Thank you. God Bless.
Through all the explanations of your wise and thoughtful techniques, what I see you teaching and demonstrating best is LOVE. You are a treasure. Thank you.
I am 75 now and remember before we went to school, we had chores to do. We didn’t live on a farm but started washing, washed dishes, vacuuming, cleaning bathroom, dusting and other such things. Even though my mother was a stay at home mother, we still had responsibilities. When we each married, we all knew how to do things kids now days have no clue in doing. I agree, this is what is wrong with our country now, parents let the kids dictate what the family does, and it is usually the parents that do the chores and wait on the children. What changed? When did the children become so privileged to be in charge at such immature ages?
What a fabulous lesson you have taught me. We are helping our daughter (she has mental health issues) to raise our grandson. He is nearly 11 and he is sssooooo lazy. I will be implementing your chore skills from today.....Thank you so much Ruth Ann.....wish I had seen this video long time ago....
You are a wonderful role model for your children. They will grow up with discipline and pass those lessons onto their own children. Great way to enforce life skills
Ruth Ann, I've enjoyed all the videos that I've watched. This one on chores is really good. I'm 74 and grew up on a farm. Being the youngest, I had the chance to learn one on one with mom and dad. I remember at supper time, that mom washed, I stood on a chair and rinsed then dad dried and put away. A side note: my youngest sister was 13 when I was born so I got A LOT of practice with chores inside and out. I've been very blessed to learn to work consistently and to do the job well. It has served me very well through my life. Thanks for the tips for parents raising children yet. Ready for the next video.
Thank you so much. What a wonderful world it would be if more parents took the time to teach their children. But they have to get their faces out of their phones. Love from England.
This was such a helpful video! Thank you, Ruthann ❤️ I would love to hear your thoughts on how to handle a child that expects appreciation/recognition whenever he finishes a task. For example, when completing a chore he will often brag about how hard he worked or how good of a job he did. I try my best to often (not always) acknowledge and praise when he does a good job, so I don't feel that he is lacking either attention or appreciation. I've been trying to teach him that we don't work in order to be seen, but rather to serve each other and to please the Lord. Any thoughts on this? (He's 9, by the way...my oldest 😊)
That sounds typical for a 9 yr old boy! 😀 I tell my boys. ‘I want to praise you but you e already praised yourself so much that I don’t even know what to say’ When they fall into this habit I remind them to just stick to the chore report and then I can praise them. And then we we won’t talk about it again.. I’ve even had to remind them to treasure the ‘feeling of satisfaction’ in stillness.
If you only start with chores when the kids are ready to do chores you are encouraging idleness. It's important for them to realize that it requires work to run a household. My boys were given small chores from an early age and as Ruthanne suggests they were age appropriate chores. Now that my son's are grown I'm proud to say they're well trained men. They can cook, clean, do laundry and be responsible for their own actions. My husband and I must have done something right.
I’m currently reading through your workbook while watching this. What a thorough layout and explanation for each age group! I’m always looking to improve as a mother of 2 young boys currently and my oldest is almost 4. He LOVES to vacuum. So I let him push the vacuum around for a few minutes until it becomes too difficult for him (it’s not the lightest vacuum ever) while I fold laundry. I love the lists in the back. So super helpful. Thank you!!!
Update: I started implementing some things already and my 3 year old helped me do all of the dishes tonight! It was more like he was allowed to play with the water as I was washing the dishes but he stood there the whole time and loved washing off the bubbles !!!! This was a solid 30 minute activity and he was ENTHRALLED. It was amazing. Thank you!!
You are spot on! When I was growing up my parents had paper routes and got up at 1:30 AM every day for years and years. Us kids would get up and go with them every Thursday and Sunday as those were large paper days because of the ads. All four of us have great work ethics and understand the importance of pitching in to get the job done. Mrswray (commented below) is right! The people who don't teach their kids the value of work is the reason this country is in the shape it is in today. I thank the Lord there are people like you & Mr. Z who teach your children the valuable lessons they WILL need in life. They are for sure the better for it! We need a world with more people like you and your family in it! May God bless you and your family. And THANK YOU for every video you share!
This was such a blessing and encouragement. Thank you. I've learned some places I need to work on. Cannot wait to get your book. Your wisdom always inspires me to growth, and I love that it is all rooted in scripture, not man's wisdom. Thank you a hundred times!
Chit’s are great for kids, we had them growing up and we were made to do them even if we didn’t want to, and it made us better hard working people today
I remember so well us 5 kids planting the garden with mama. The bigger kid...me...got to plant the teeny weeny seeds; I hated it. My sister at 2, would have a coffee can of corn seeds because she could count to 2 and put 2 seeds in each hole. Ah, the memories.
I love your attitude, this is how God expect us to be. I am not of your religious faith, but I believe in Jesus Christ as my savior. I love how your life shows your faith inof God
I have a theory. Many farm families are like this. Not just Mennonite families. For generations, farm families have lived this way and there is so much to do the farm won’t function without everyone working and doing their share. My theory is that as more and more people leave the farm and move to town, more people are farther removed from farm culture. It is more foreign to people and for some families, they have grand parents or aunts and uncles who farm, but farm life is completely foreign to them. I love that parents are now wanting to learn how to give their children chores. The youngsters will feel more importance and self-worth. And builds stronger family units. It will build character in their little hearts. It gives them the opportunity to build problem solving and decision making skills as the chores are age appropriate and they gain competence and confidence. They may be given more s as they grow and can handle more responsibility.
That's how we were raised, too. It was the typical way people were raised in the past. That is how kids learn to live. They become adults, they aren't "adulting".
That 1st comment by Someone who watched this video , to let children do chores when they feel like it made me laugh out loud! Whose flesh Ever wants to work Instead of play as a child?!?!? You go girl, I just love your videos with them!!!
This is a great video! My sons are adults now, but as a working single mom, my sons had to pitch in. We lived in the suburbs, so they didn't have farm chores, but they were responsible for shoveling in the winters, garbage & recycling duties, vacuuming and the laundry.
I so wish i had this when my children were younger. They are all grown with children of their own now. I've shared the video with them in hopes it can help. Now im going to use these skills with myself because im not very good with following through with chores.
I was born growing up and doing chores as were both of my 2 Daughter's and 5 Grandchildren. In fact all of them had chores before school and they decided to get a job out of the house at 14 and don't tell me that kids can't get a job at 14 yrs that's an old wise tell and some children can get a driver's license at 14 because of where they live it happens a lot when you live on a farm they drive tractors, combines, etc and these Children will grow up being more mature than others of the same as.!!
This is part of the reason the United States is turning out the way it has; as stated in the beginning of the video ALOT of people don’t give their kids chores and responsibilities. I was one of those kids and once I married and started my family I realized how far behind I was because I didn’t know how to clean or have the self discipline to do things I didn’t want to do. I still struggle with consistency but I’m trying to teach my kids differently. Thank you for this video!
Self dicipline is the key to so many things in the adult life.
I’m just watching this video now - and I 100% agree with you regarding chores and honestly - it’s 100% what’s wrong with this country! Too many people coddle their kids these days. Most don’t know where their food comes from or understand that in order for the lawn to get mowed or the driveway to get shoveled SOMEONE HAS TO DO IT. It’s part of my disgust with the “everyone gets a participation trophy” so NO ONE feels left out. BOLOGNA. Those that work hard recoup the benefits!! And that’s what this country needs to get back to - to teach our children that they need to work for and earn everything in life! I commend you for the chores for the children!! God bless!
It's never to late to learn..
I agree with you!
Yes and *multiple* generations of parents are guilty of this. They've also been failing to teach their children how to be parents.
"Children are a map of their parents," regardless of age.
My mother was raised in the mountains of Va. she was born in 1918 and was a hard worker. I followed her around when I was a preschooler watching what she did and how she did things, and later when I was 6 began to help with the laundry on a wringer washer with her supervision doing what I could at my size. When I got to about 10 I did all the laundry for her including hanging out the clothes on the line, bringing them in and folding them and putting them away.. As a teenager she never had to ask me to help, I would see her starting a chore and would just jump in and help without her asking me to. As a married young lady if I went to visit her it was the same, we would visit while we did her work if that was what she was doing at the time. The only thing she wanted no help with was cooking, that was her thing and I knew she wanted peace and quiet and no help with that, however, I would clear the table and help with clean up after we ate. When I was 10 momma went to the hospital for 21 days. Mom always said she came home to a clean house with even the laundry all done when she was dismissed from the hospital. There were no chores to be done when she came home that day. Mom talked about how well I had done until she passed away. I feel good about the way I helped and it was all because I had learned the routine of what needed to be done by watching what was needed when I was very small. I never had assigned chores because she knew that I was one of those kids who would see what needed doing and just do it right then. I feed the chickens and gathered the eggs, watered the cows, fed the dog and cat without even being assigned those chores. At seven I just knew that was the things I could do that would save momma time around the house. It did not hurt me to help and now at 72 I can look back and feel good about making moms life a bit easier. Later when I became a nurse I did the same just doing what was need whether it was "my job" or not.
We adopted 5 children. We let the oldest 2 go to school 6 months after they arrived. They lasted 5 months. We were appalled at what they were learning and the sudden changes in public schools with regard to gender identity. We took them out, sold our beautiful property, moved to an old, run down homestead and started growing all our food with 0 experience. They LOVE it. They get up before me and see to the chickens, rabbits, sheep and pigs. They love responsibility and the privilege of all that God has given them. They have their challenging days too but overall they are very happy kids, 3 years in!
What a great teacher/parent you are! You are raising children who will make excellent spouses and excellent employees!
Thank you so much!
Amen
Children have to learn to work just like they learn to read, write, and every other learned skill! If you start early they will never know the difference and it will run smoothly! Work with your child and set a good example! This is the best advice ever!
Ruthann, I watched this video in amazement! I agree with you spot on. I am 78 and had many chores to do mainly when weekends came my sis and I had to clean house and do laundry, ie hang out laundry using clothes lines and clothes pins. Then take down and fold or iron laundry. All chores had to be done BEFORE we could go out Saturday night, etc. No problem, we did our chores so we could go have fun. NO ARGUING EVER! Wonderful time to grow up!!
Girl, you are driven . If only this world had even 2% like you it would be a wonderful place. And you said you had an 8th grade education. You are smarter than college professors in the ways of real life…kudos!
Yes! Momma you are a rockstar! So thankful there are people like you in this world ♡ Bravo
Don't know why someone would call you uneducated. You are one of the most educated persons I know. Just because you didn't sit in a school classroom for x number of years means nothing. You share more knowledge than most individuals will ever have about real life. Thank you for your casual and real approach to teaching. You do a fantastic job!!!
If a child can drop a toy he can pick it up. If he can dress himself, he can bring clothing to the laundry room and put it away. You are correct in your approach. I raised my children in the city. They had chores and kept doing them and we traded them around on a quarterly basis so you weren't stuck with something you hated for more than a 3 month stretch. I found that taking the time when they were young, made my life easier when they became older. I had a checklist in the kitchen and bathroom on what needed to be done to be acceptably clean. Every child did every chore on rotation. They are awesomely well respected and functioning adults now raising my grandchildren. They have told me they're glad they were raised the way they were because the skills and ability to.push through has helped them succeed in life. I'm glad you wrote the book!
Awesome to see a young mother so invested in her family and in particular her children.
I can’t believe someone would question or declare that a child will do his or her chores on their own. This cannot be a parent or one with any understanding.
Your children will believe they belong and will also be invested in your family unit. Sweet!
What I’ve noticed implementing chores with my children are they actually enjoy being a part of taking care of the home because when it’s all done we get to sit back and enjoy our work. They may balk at first, but I turn on some wholesome Pandora music on the TV and we light candles and we all clean together. I’m also usually cooking something yummy on the stove so we get to enjoy eating it in our clean home. It’s truly amazing how kids will engage when the parents show it as a blessing instead of as a chore that’s no fun. Payment isn’t even expected when we make it an experience like this. They actually want to do it.
I’m am new to your channel and I couldn’t agree more. I’m a New York mom and I raised all three of my sons the same way and they are all successful adults. I always told myself I’m not raising little boys I’m raising future men. I took a lot of heat from parents around me who felt I was too harsh, but my children will tell you I have never raised my voice to them and I have never had to severely punish them. Natural consequences is a wonderful teacher.
I couldn't agree more. My husband's philosophy was you don't start rising children when they are teenagers you start when they are toddlers. As the lady above said she wasn't raising little boys she was raising future men.
You are a really wonderful mother and human. I appreciate your presence in this space and really value the content you share. Thank you!
I completely agree with your words. You said this perfectly.
Children only doing chores when they want or choose on their own? Would be *never* at my house! Love your insights and wisdom. Even we grandparents can learn new ways to teach “new dogs” new tricks!! 😊 🐶
Absolutely! Though not Amish or Minnonite I was raised on a small family farm. We had a dairy where we hand milked +/- 6-8 cows morning & night, there were also horses, hogs, & 50-60 head of beef cattle to be fed. We raise marketable produce like tobacco, potatoes, & green beans, There was also hay & silage to put up, & we grew cane to make molasses. I'm so thankful that I was taught responsibility, accountability, & common sense. It has stood me in good stead.
I appreciate yours and Elvins style of parenting. Everyone in a family has a responsibility to do their part to help a family function. Children raised in this manner make better partners, and workers in society. They build self confidence and self esteem because they are engaged in life and learning life skills that will aid them through out life. Thank you for your diligence in training your children.
I was raised up on a small homestead with a big garden plus a few acres of olives, and was doing chores at my parents' knees as soon as I could hold a tool or pick up a bucket. I was taught to feed and care for that which feeds us bf we feed ourselves, bc that is showing gratitude for what they will give us and it makes them joyful. Ever see a hen find fresh pumpkin guts in the feed pan or a duck find his baby pool freshened in the morning? It's a party! It was interesting to discuss our chore/business report over breakfast. My dad always asked when I thought a rabbit was going to litter or which hen was setting a brood and how was she looking (animal husbandry lessons over oatmeal), how many dozen eggs we'd have available to sell that day. Did I think some early turnips and beets could be thinned for dinner tonight? He was very attentive to my opinions and consequently, I was very invested in what came to the table and what we could make a profit off/save by not having to buy from others. If I didn't know something, it went on my list of stuff he could show me the next morning... quality father/daughter learning time that was a real pleasure. If he didn't have an answer to a question, we'd learn it together and figure out how to implement that. Consequences came in the form of tending my little sister (a difficult dispositioned, angelic looking absolute little terrorist) so my mom had more time for her own chores and projects, unfettered. I learned to keep my attitude in check and that it's more enjoyable to be uncomplaining than it was to get a chronically grumpy baby/toddler to cooperate. LOL!
We need this kind of parenting! Thankful for your willingness to be an amazing example of unconditional love!
I couldn't agree more!
I find it hilarious that people think kids will do chores when they are ready. that does NOT happen. I was raised on a small family farm and we did the same thing, not to your level, however. We always thought that we fed the animals because they can't feed themselves. We chose them, they did not choose us. I think it's wonderful what you are teaching your children, all of it! It is a different life if you live in the city and don't have animals to take care of, are not raising their own food (gardening), what they get is in the stores. People have no idea how much work is involved in the "production" of food. Well, I look forward to your youtube videos and continue to learn. Thank you.
I've just started following this channel for a week. I'm amazed at your brilliance. I'm retired and old and not in the game anymore, still cooking, making everything from scratch, canning and gardening etc, but you have me amazed at your natural brilliance
Isn't she amazing? I swear this woman lowers my blood pressure. LOL
I one hundred percent agree!, I have done my share of gardening housekeeping, bringing up my two children but this woman is amazing and runs circles around me. I wish I knew half of the skills that she does, and how well adjusted her children are.❤
I love this approach. It isn't about "forcing" or "punishment", it is about learning, skill building, curiousity, cooperation, accountability, responsibility, and self-discipline according to the child's age and, a child's previous learning.
I was raised doing chores before catching the bus in the morning and doing chores after school. Our animal's had to be fed and watered before we went to school. That was normal way of life. Now day's kids don't know what chores are. I'm so proud growing up the way my brother's and myself grew up. So me personally am proud of how you raise your children. Keep up the good work mom..
My parents' way of giving us chores was to write weekly chores on paper and for every chore we did, we were told to put a hash mark by our name. At the end of the month, my father would give a dollar for every hash mark. We were never shown how to do the chores, were yelled at when we did a task incorrectly (and still were not shown or guided), and yet, when the hash marks were counted and someone did hardly anything, we were not disciplined until our lack of experience showed and then we were discouraged, belittled and hit. There was so much consistency, fear, misdirected expectation, and acute lack of guidance. Much of the time, in the event we were asked to do something, we learned thay my mom would just do it for us and then lie and said we did it, because then we could avoid the possible belittlement and pain.
Now, at 30, coping with general life is extremely difficult for me. It is embarrassing, frightening...and watching your videos, RuthAnn, is like finally having a parent figure in my life who can guide, correct, and demonstrated unconditional love. Thank you.
As a single mother my children also had chores and were involved with cooking with me...yes Ruth it's life skills ! Self discipline and for a us as family to take care of the home we all live in x it worked well, my children are now adults and keep a good,organised home.
Your chore reports are genius x
Wish I saw this when I was raising my boys. I was trying to develop MY skill set instead of their's. To this day, I struggle with procrastination and motivation. My mother was a stay at home mom who was very motivated and organized. Our home ran like a well oiled machine. We did have Saturday chores but I never learned the most important skill of self-discipline. This video is priceless!
I am from the islands and kids are expected to have chores, I thank God every day for that and now living in this country raising three of them and I definitely bringing them up the same.
Chores always gave me a sense of value as a kid. I think most kids should have daily chores. Good job kids.
I feel children need structure and life skills. I fully agree with you, Ruth. I was raised with doing chores and learning life skills. It is so very important in a child's life for survival.
And disapline is another thing that kids need to learn so that they are unruly.
You and your husband are doing a marvelous job. Just like my parents did with us kids.
My mother started teaching all four of us kids how to keep our dresser drawers neat. She did have a problem with Leslie, Kenneth , Keith was a problem, and me , the baby.
Mom would dumb is drawers on the floor, and Keith would pick things up, but instead, he would get a large garage bag, and dump all his junck into the large garage bag and then take it down the woods and bury it and then dig it up when he needed something.
My mother had a time with him. And he still is a slop to at 68 years old.
I think you have a good handle handle on your kids.
It works for teachers too! I had to practice how we handle fire drills, greeting visitors, setting up the desks for different activities, etc... When it wasn't done we had an opportunity to practice again. (One class had 50 minutes worth of fire drill practice before they learned the proper way, but they learned.) You are correct, consistency is the key.
I'm just now staring my homesteading journey at 43. My children are teen - adult age and while I have always given them chores, I have also not given them enough and I am struggling to get either of my boys to be responsible. I wish I had found this earlier in my life. This is such a value for any parent.
this is so similar to the Montessori teaching philosophy that I have used in 30+ years of teaching. Chores are very grounding, center the child, teaches them life skills, develops a sense of community and a sense of responsibility. Kudos!!
I was thinking the same thing! Also setting very young children up for success by entrusting them to „help“ or do things themselves!
It's lovely to see a family working as a family team, it's how I grew up in a large family in Wales 🏴 Uk, in our modern fast moving gadget reliant world, it's no longer the norm for children to learn n to become self reliant, my parent's taught us to cook, clean, look after animals, help our older family members, neighbours & friends. My own four now adult children all had chores growing up & are all now confident, self reliant & teaching my Grandchildren the same values they were. It's a difficult world for parents now especially when the children start school because they are influenced by so many distractions from a more real type of nurturing, so many parents are absent working to fill their homes with unnecessary items or achieve status financially. Nobody ever said the wished they'd spent more time at work, childhood is such a small but important part of a persons long life, it's not to be missed.
Hallo vanuit Nederland, mijn man en ik zijn christen, en wij zijn opgegroeid op een boerderij en fruitbedrijf. Zoals jullie je kinderen opvoeden met het helpen van klusjes, zo zijn wij opgegroeid en dat hebben wij ook zo gedaan met onze 4 kinderen. Wij hebben een melkveebedrijf en er is werk genoeg. Ze hebben geleerd te werken. Wij zijn bevoorrecht dat we ze op deze manier kunnen opvoeden. Daar zijn wij erg dankbaar voor. Ik kijk graag naar je videos. Groet
OK
Who needs Dr Spock ? This IS the most commonsense fabulous kindhearted consistent parenting skills I ever heard. The best-if a child refuses chores they sit till they are ready & bam...more chores to practice ! Then having the children be accountable by giving a chores report is a superb way to give kids freedom & learn responsibility! Ruth, YOU ARE AMAZING ! They should hand this video out to parents at the hospital when they give birth !
Your teaching them live skills. I had chores from 4yrs to now at 62. It’s life. People coddle their children too much these days that’s why there’s no respect they don’t know how to work and I blame it on the parents if everybody was a bit harder on their kids instead of trying to be their best friend but be their parents in the place and that we wouldn’t have the mess we have now work ethic is no more is not taught anymore in our kids
You're going by example, whilst kind, patient and understanding, true role model. True loving parent💕
I grew up doing chores on a farm and household chores. It's great teaching and self discipline. It instill not only skills but a work ethic that employers look for.
I appreciate your statement about mothers tending to underestimate their own children's abilities. I've definitely seen this in my own life where another adult has asked my child to do something that I'm sure they're not able to do. I'm always surprised by watching my child rise to the occasion and complete the job that I just knew they weren't able to do. It's a constant pendulum swing between wanting my children to grow and learn new responsibilities but also wanting them to stay babies (or not wanting to admit they're no longer babies).
Chore reports, "growth not perfection": all good stuff!
Appreciate your consistency and care in helping your children grow into being successful adults!
Blessings
Thank you for fulfilling your calling. You and your family will be amazed at your rewards in Heaven. Your whole channel is incredible and this particular episode is life changing! Blessings!!!
To the person who said you sound uneducated, you are more educated than most degreed people I know. Most people couldn’t do 1/8 of all you do & all you do is so important. Wish I had had the advice you give on kids when I had young kids. I love watching & LEARNING from you & im 78 yo
Ruthann… you are amazing. Please raise all of America’s children! 😂😂
I love the chore reports idea 🥰 I never thought of doing something like that. I'm raising independent thinkers and not ones that'll do whatever they are told to do and not think on their own.
It’s good to have a balance in that. While it’s not good to raise robots that never have a voice or thought, but also it’s not good to go to the opposite extreme where they only think for themselves and don’t listen to the wisdom and guidance of the parents. Children have parents because they need to be cared for and taught and trained to be productive adults.
More kids at home should have chores and they might not tell the parents what to do. They would know the value of life. Not handing them everything. You are doing a great job! Keep it up!
This is was the way of life that built our nation...past generations were taught to work for what was wanted or needed...that's what made America strong and resilient. We've lost that drive and the present generation now expects things to be handed to them...that's why you see millennials posting videos in outrage of having to be at work on time or even go to work at all! It's really sad to see the disintegration of our country and I'm so glad to see families like yours continuing to raise their children to appreciate hard work and respect for their parents. Thank you!
If you weren't running a homestead, you could be an excellent elementary school teacher.😊
Sounds like good parenting to me . I would tell my kids that if they needed something to do I would find something for them . They learned fast to get their chores done then find things to keep themselves busy .
Its funny, my children are grown now, but they remember the chores so much differently than I do. To them it was a time of struggle, but a good time. I remember them as a headache waiting to happen. They remember accomplishment on their part and a memorable experience. I am happy to say they have grown to be adults that I am happy to know.
Chores are great teachers for kids. My kids learned young & were complimented often by other adults. They were proud of themselves when this happened. As adults they have wonderful work ethics. And taught theses same things to their children. Now those grandchildren are getting jobs & their employor is very happy to have them & give them more resposibility & of course more pay than their "friends".
Do people really believe that children should not do chores!?! That’s why our society has become a bunch of entitled and irresponsible adults. Walking around thinking the world owes them a life. It’s just so sad to see what this world has become. I commend you and your husband for teaching your children real life skills. Thank you for sharing your lives with us.
You are a very wise mama!! Our children had chores without being 'paid' and learned to work together, have satisfaction of a job well done and gained many skills. Children that work together will grow up to be great adults. My sons are now in their 40's, both have a servant's heart and are very helpful to me since my husband died. I don't have to ask, they just anticipate. They are a true blessing.
I wasnt raised on a farm , but still did chorse. I worked full time babysitting by 10.Its smart to teach your kids how to help themselves.
My granddaughter begged to do dishes when she could barely reach the sink. Kids usually Want to help. Good for you for teaching your children life skills!
That reporting strategy is Brilliant!
I love the chore report idea. We have a 12 year old who still hasn't learned to complete his chores properly. Which is doing the chickens.
My brother and I were taught various skills at home through doing chores and we are both very grateful to our Mom.
Ruthanne, you are truly amazing as a mother and teacher. Sure this video will light the fire under some parents on how to teach your children… GOD bless you always.
What wonderful ideas! I have been struggling with my younger children because I was raised where children were to be neither seen nor heard, so I would shoo my younger ones off to play while I did chores. As they got older, I wondered why it was so hard to get them to help out, but I had squashed that early desire to help! We are doing things differently now with the younger ones, but I LOVE the idea of "chore reports" instead of asking them each thing. So much wonderful wisdom! Thank you!! ❤
You are a wonderful teacher. So many adults these days don’t have any life skills. It’s shocking to me how little parenting is utilized in this world today. Praise God you got saved❤❤❤ All children need a sense of purpose and belonging. A good work ethic is learned from parents.
What great parents! We need more like you in the world today.
I’m so thankful to have found your videos. I have learned so much and wish I would have known all this over 20+ years ago! You are such and inspirational wise woman! Thank you for sharing your heritage and your family’s life with us! God truly is good and you are so valuable❣️
Excellent video I love this video its excatly how I raised my 4 grown children and raising my 2 who are still at home
I WAS RAISED TO WORK, IT MAKES YOU A RESPONSIBLE WORKER WHEN THEY GROW UP.... :) I HAVE PICTURES OF MY CHILDREN COVERED IN FLOUR AS EARLY AS TWO-YEARS OLD. THEY ARE EXCELENT COOKS TODAY!!! GOD BLESS YOU!!!! :)
Your a rock star of a mom and your children are blessed to have you teaching them. I raised 2 boys who we adopted and then their father passed when they where young. They told their friends my mom is a slave driver, chores everyday. How ever now grown,they have thank me for their disciplined childhood and say there kids out there are rotten and how grateful for the way I raised them as a single mom.
I used to say that training children is not only for this life...on earth, but also for training up children to be the best people they can be, have a good heart, loving characters, etc. These are the traits they will take into the next life. There is no finer work than to raise up children for the kingdom of God!
I love your whole philosophy and practice around rearing, teaching and training up children.
It's not just children who feign incompetence. I've worked with adults who do the same. If I'm not their boss, it isn't my business. When I am the boss, we had some more training.
Wish I would have had this info when we raised our daughters. Such brilliant ideas and simple! Great for developing responsible adults. Gonna buy your ebook and maybe someday I will use with grandchildren or gift to our daughters for their children. Thank you!
Thank you!!!!
Me too!! I wished I had this knowledge when my kids were younger!! They are now all young adults. I think that these are brilliant ideas. Thanks for sharing!
Being productive is self esteem building. A sense of accomplishment.
I really laughed when you said," I think you need more practice" Sounded just like my mom!!! She had that same way of teaching.
Years ago, I facilitated parenting programs and I based the programs on the concept of what you want your kids to be like at Age 16 - everything you do prior to that is teaching them the skills to develop those abilities and practices.
Fantastic video.
Such a great video and teaching!!! Practical and also you explain the reasoning behind your methods. I am a grandma and empty nester and I would recommend these methods to anyone!
EXCELLENT video!! EVERY family in America should live like this.
“Gained incompetence “ is at the top of my 7 year old grandsons list 😂😂😂 Mimi doesn’t fall for it
I rewarded myself with this video on this dreary, rainy day. I have been saving it because I knew it would make so much sense! I was raised in the Midwest by parents who were raised on farms and lived through the depression. my mom and grandma were the hardest-working ladies I know, but you may have topped them 👏 we also, were required to work alongside them, when there was work to do. I am so thankful, now, because I learned so many useful skills! We have 4 children who KNOW how to work hard; a commodity in society today! Thank you for such valuable content! I have only been subscribed for a short time but have watched almost all of your content. Your approach is SO kind and joyful; it draws a person to you 🥰 And your following has nearly DOUBLED since I found your channel! Congratulations 👍🏻
You are a terrific mom , I wish someone would make this mandatory to be a parent, to watch your video, I am a bus driver and I know what kids get this training and which ones don't, parents now didn't get this training and neither did theirs, I was fortunate to have parents that wanted us to have this training, my dad got a couple cows and chickens ducks and 4 pigs so I would learn how to milk by hand and clean the barn and learn where our food came from. , By the time my little sister came along that life was over so she didn't learn and is not responsible for herself. Doesn't try to be family and help others without something in return. This stuff should be taught in schools. I just recently found your videos and I love them, you have a beautiful family. I wish I lived closer so I could learn hands on. Thank you. God Bless.
Through all the explanations of your wise and thoughtful techniques, what I see you teaching and demonstrating best is LOVE. You are a treasure. Thank you.
I am 75 now and remember before we went to school, we had chores to do. We didn’t live on a farm but started washing, washed dishes, vacuuming, cleaning bathroom, dusting and other such things. Even though my mother was a stay at home mother, we still had responsibilities. When we each married, we all knew how to do things kids now days have no clue in doing.
I agree, this is what is wrong with our country now, parents let the kids dictate what the family does, and it is usually the parents that do the chores and wait on the children. What changed? When did the children become so privileged to be in charge at such immature ages?
What a fabulous lesson you have taught me. We are helping our daughter (she has mental health issues) to raise our grandson. He is nearly 11 and he is sssooooo lazy. I will be implementing your chore skills from today.....Thank you so much Ruth Ann.....wish I had seen this video long time ago....
You are a wonderful role model for your children. They will grow up with discipline and pass those lessons onto their own children. Great way to enforce life skills
One of your best ever videos. So thankful you have the courage and willingness to share your ways with everyone. It's a blessing.
Ruth Ann, I've enjoyed all the videos that I've watched. This one on chores is really good. I'm 74 and grew up on a farm. Being the youngest, I had the chance to learn one on one with mom and dad. I remember at supper time, that mom washed, I stood on a chair and rinsed then dad dried and put away. A side note: my youngest sister was 13 when I was born so I got A LOT of practice with chores inside and out. I've been very blessed to learn to work consistently and to do the job well. It has served me very well through my life. Thanks for the tips for parents raising children yet. Ready for the next video.
I loved chores growing up, and would volunteer because it gave me a sense of accomplishment to complete something for the family.
Thank you so much. What a wonderful world it would be if more parents took the time to teach their children. But they have to get their faces out of their phones. Love from England.
This was such a helpful video! Thank you, Ruthann ❤️ I would love to hear your thoughts on how to handle a child that expects appreciation/recognition whenever he finishes a task. For example, when completing a chore he will often brag about how hard he worked or how good of a job he did. I try my best to often (not always) acknowledge and praise when he does a good job, so I don't feel that he is lacking either attention or appreciation. I've been trying to teach him that we don't work in order to be seen, but rather to serve each other and to please the Lord. Any thoughts on this? (He's 9, by the way...my oldest 😊)
That sounds typical for a 9 yr old boy! 😀
I tell my boys. ‘I want to praise you but you e already praised yourself so much that I don’t even know what to say’
When they fall into this habit I remind them to just stick to the chore report and then I can praise them. And then we we won’t talk about it again.. I’ve even had to remind them to treasure the ‘feeling of satisfaction’ in stillness.
If you only start with chores when the kids are ready to do chores you are encouraging idleness. It's important for them to realize that it requires work to run a household. My boys were given small chores from an early age and as Ruthanne suggests they were age appropriate chores. Now that my son's are grown I'm proud to say they're well trained men. They can cook, clean, do laundry and be responsible for their own actions. My husband and I must have done something right.
I’m currently reading through your workbook while watching this. What a thorough layout and explanation for each age group! I’m always looking to improve as a mother of 2 young boys currently and my oldest is almost 4. He LOVES to vacuum. So I let him push the vacuum around for a few minutes until it becomes too difficult for him (it’s not the lightest vacuum ever) while I fold laundry. I love the lists in the back. So super helpful. Thank you!!!
Update: I started implementing some things already and my 3 year old helped me do all of the dishes tonight! It was more like he was allowed to play with the water as I was washing the dishes but he stood there the whole time and loved washing off the bubbles !!!! This was a solid 30 minute activity and he was ENTHRALLED. It was amazing. Thank you!!
I always felt proud of my ability to perform chores.
You are spot on! When I was growing up my parents had paper routes and got up at 1:30 AM every day for years and years. Us kids would get up and go with them every Thursday and Sunday as those were large paper days because of the ads. All four of us have great work ethics and understand the importance of pitching in to get the job done. Mrswray (commented below) is right! The people who don't teach their kids the value of work is the reason this country is in the shape it is in today. I thank the Lord there are people like you & Mr. Z who teach your children the valuable lessons they WILL need in life. They are for sure the better for it! We need a world with more people like you and your family in it! May God bless you and your family. And THANK YOU for every video you share!
This was such a blessing and encouragement. Thank you. I've learned some places I need to work on. Cannot wait to get your book. Your wisdom always inspires me to growth, and I love that it is all rooted in scripture, not man's wisdom. Thank you a hundred times!
Chit’s are great for kids, we had them growing up and we were made to do them even if we didn’t want to, and it made us better hard working people today
I remember so well us 5 kids planting the garden with mama. The bigger kid...me...got to plant the teeny weeny seeds; I hated it. My sister at 2, would have a coffee can of corn seeds because she could count to 2 and put 2 seeds in each hole. Ah, the memories.
I love your attitude, this is how God expect us to be. I am not of your religious faith, but I believe in Jesus Christ as my savior. I love how your life shows your faith inof God
I have a theory. Many farm families are like this. Not just Mennonite families. For generations, farm families have lived this way and there is so much to do the farm won’t function without everyone working and doing their share. My theory is that as more and more people leave the farm and move to town, more people are farther removed from farm culture. It is more foreign to people and for some families, they have grand parents or aunts and uncles who farm, but farm life is completely foreign to them. I love that parents are now wanting to learn how to give their children chores. The youngsters will feel more importance and self-worth. And builds stronger family units. It will build character in their little hearts. It gives them the opportunity to build problem solving and decision making skills as the chores are age appropriate and they gain competence and confidence. They may be given more s as they grow and can handle more responsibility.
That's how we were raised, too. It was the typical way people were raised in the past. That is how kids learn to live. They become adults, they aren't "adulting".
That 1st comment by Someone who watched this video , to let children do chores when they feel like it made me laugh out loud! Whose flesh Ever wants to work Instead of play as a child?!?!? You go girl, I just love your videos with them!!!
teach a child in the ways he should go and when he is older he will not stray…
This is a great video! My sons are adults now, but as a working single mom, my sons had to pitch in. We lived in the suburbs, so they didn't have farm chores, but they were responsible for shoveling in the winters, garbage & recycling duties, vacuuming and the laundry.
Yep and now their mature working adults
I so wish i had this when my children were younger. They are all grown with children of their own now. I've shared the video with them in hopes it can help. Now im going to use these skills with myself because im not very good with following through with chores.
Oh my goodness…I love how you’re raising your children!!!!
I was born growing up and doing chores as were both of my 2 Daughter's and 5 Grandchildren. In fact all of them had chores before school and they decided to get a job out of the house at 14 and don't tell me that kids can't get a job at 14 yrs that's an old wise tell and some children can get a driver's license at 14 because of where they live it happens a lot when you live on a farm they drive tractors, combines, etc and these Children will grow up being more mature than others of the same as.!!
I agree with the way you raise your Children. Good for them They will learn how to do everything. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤