Proverbs 22:6 Train a child in the way he should go, and even when he is old, he will not turn away from it”
Growing my own children, I remember sitting down with my husband and discussing the need to show our children how to live as a family. Daily chores had to be done by all, starting from simple activities like clearing away the dishes after a meal. Although my husband and I were tired after a day at work doing this simple thing together demonstrated to our children the importance of everyday chores. Later in my work I was involved in learning how to transition children with disabilities into the adult medical system. Through research at Bloorview Children’s Hospital in Toronto they found that those children who were involved in family chores were better at transitioning well into adult behaviors.
Family camping trips and trips to the beach were also a chance to work together so that all could have fun. It became a challenge to see how quickly camp could be set up as going swimming could only be done when camp was ready. So today involve the whole family in setting up and clearing away an activity, a simple meal, or making your own finger paint and painting together making sure that all are involved in every stage of the activity from measuring things to make to clearing everything up, whatever is age appropriate. Yes, it might be faster to do it all yourself but ‘train a child in the way he should go, and even when he is old, he will not turn away from it”
Recipe for finger paint
4 cups water
1 cup cornstarch
6 tablespoons granulated white sugar
1 teaspoon salt
Icing gels for colors
In a medium-sized saucepan add the first four ingredients and whisk until combined.
Cook on medium heat, stirring constantly until your mixture thickens.
Turn off your stove and remove from the heat.
Separate into your containers, one container for each color you would like to make.
Using a toothpick add a very small blob of the icing color gel and using a spoon stir until the color is fully mixed in.
Let stand until cool before use or closing lid to store.
Whilst waiting for the paint to cool have a family dance party !
CrossWalk 