Ask One More Question

It's hard sometimes for my son who is 9 to be a role model for his younger brother and sister. I mean, sometimes it's hard for me to be a good role model. I'll often ask him to help me out by being a good leader. Usually it goes something like this:

"Hey, we have a lot going on today and I need your help by not making a mess, will you help me?" His response is usually, "Sure."

This approach is not very effective at preventing messes. However, I have recently employed a new strategy that works not only at home but other places.

Ask one more opened ended question.

So, we start with the same exchange above, but following his "Sure." I ask, "Can you please tell me more about how you will help me out?"

To which he explains his idea of helping. We are then able to discuss each of our expectations and make certain we are in alignment. This process allows him to think it through and understand better how he can truly help.

Asking one more question, whether at home, work or other places takes a little more thought, but may just make a big difference