We all have those moments where we just need to feel like we aren’t doing so bad as a parent after all. I’m not talking about those rare moments when someone tells you, “You’re a great mom.” I’m talking about something the kids do or say that makes you realize you’re raising some pretty awesome kids.
This morning I was blessed with one of those moments.
I’ve mentioned before that our son is not the world’s best sleeper. We even had a special party this fall when he finally slept in his own bed for a whole week in a row.
Unfortunately his sleep habits didn’t magically improve after that week.
I don’t know why I never thought of it before, but a week ago I made a little sleep chart for us to check off days on. He really wanted a Hot Wheel snow plow, and so we made that the prize he’d earn if he slept in his bed for 7 nights in a row. (I’m hoping that since Hot Wheels worked magic when he was potty training, maybe they can help again.)
Today we marked off that 7th day, and he earned his cherished snow plow.
Wanting to establish a new habit of sleeping in his bed on a regular basis, I decided we’d make another chart, this time for 10 days.
When I asked him what prize he wanted to earn, I expected to hear “another Hot Wheel.”
His surprising answer? A princess doll for his sister.
Now it’s not unusual for my kids to ask for a second cookie or other treat so they can share with their sibling, but I never expected that he would want to earn a toy for his sister.
I am the first to admit I am far from being perfect, but today I know I’m doing at least a little something right.
Kristen says
What a wonderful heart! A big pat on the back to you, Mommy!! That is a very proud moment indeed!!
OneMommy says
I wanted to cry when he said that. Definitely proud.
Debbie says
What a great story. You are training up your son to be kind and considerate and think of others. Way to go! We need more parents like you!!!
Chris Carter says
WOW WOW WOW!!!!!! How freaking precious is THAT????? I mean for him to work so hard for TEN days and look toward the end prize for not him but HIS SISTER??? You are raising some pretty amazing, giving, generous and thoughtful children my dear!!! What a great testimony to his heart and character.
OneMommy says
He is one awesome kid — I always say I can learn a lot from my kids.
Heather's Happenings says
That is a great idea! I think I’ll do that for my daughter.
How sweet he wants to get his sister a princess doll!
OneMommy says
So far he’s made it to day 2 of his new chart… Since he is usually only in his bed for the entire night 3-4 days a week, I’m hoping the trend continues!
Jacklynn says
Oh my that is so sweet!! What a great brother 🙂
OneMommy says
Completely threw me off guard. 2 days later and he still says he wants to earn her a toy.
This Busy Life says
How wonderful that your son wants to share his rewards with his sister. Well done Mommy!
Kristiina says
That is so sweet! I would be so proud.
OneMommy says
This momma is very proud.
Sadie says
That is so sweet! He must be a very thoughtful child to want his prize to be for his sister! I hope this keeps up for you!
OneMommy says
I think he is my more emotional child… I do hope their desire to help each other continues as they start school! 🙂
OneMommy says
Oh, I definitely will have a little something for him!
Kathryn says
That is so sweet! And love the sleep idea too! Sounds like you have a very dear-hearted little boy! Stopping by from SITs have a great weekend!
OneMommy says
I can’t believe it, but it’s been 9 days now and he still insists the prize is for his sister this time. 🙂