The Preschooler

Silverware Sorting

As my children get older, I am becoming more flexible in how many of the household tasks are completed.  I tend to like things done a certain way, but I quickly realized that my way isn’t always the only way, and that when someone else is completing the task, almost any way is fine with me.

This is particularly true when it comes to assigning chores to our children.  Given that they are only five- and three-years-old, it can be assumed that many of the chores are not done as I would do them.  However, I know they are learning from their experiences and, in the end, it is one more task I do not have complete myself.

Let’s take the silverware, for example.  When I am emptying the dishwasher, my younger son took great delight in pushing in the two drawers and then closing the door.  Unfortunately, he would do this multiple times while I was still trying to get the clean dishes out.  I began assigning him the task of emptying the silverware compartment.  I first remove any sharp items, and then I put the silverware drawer and the removable utensil holder from the dishwasher on the floor.  He spends the next ten to fifteen minutes sorting the silverware without even knowing he is learning a math skill.  I get to spend that time emptying the rest of the dishwasher without having the door closed multiple times.  It is a win-win situation.

Yes, it is true, that you may need to search a bit longer for a fork that ended up with the spoons.  And the silverware is never all facing the same direction.  However, everyone gains something from these little relinquishments.  My child is learning valuable educational lessons.  I am learning to be flexible.  And our home is a more peaceful place.

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Written by Laura on January 17, 2011