The best thing about going to the grocery yesterday was seeing my boys voluntarily pack the groceries into paper bags at the cash register. It made me realize that kids like to do work, especially when they are affirmed. I kept telling my boys that I was impressed and so proud of them and they kept bagging the groceries.
At the grocery when I was looking for the rice and spotted the 10 kilo bag, I was about to lift it into the cart but said, “Oh my it is heavy. Would you like to help me? (addressing Elijah).” Elijah bounced over to my side, mustered the strength in his arms, picked up the bag and placed it in the cart. He managed just fine. I applauded his strength and he smiled, quite please with himself.
After the grocery, Edan said, “mom I can carry your bag” and took it right off my shoulder to hold it for me. I was going to take it back, reasoning with him that I could hold it, but he repeated,”I can do it, mom. I want to help you.”
So I let him be and said instead, “You are so thoughtful, Edan. That’s a very good trait.” He too was pleased with himself as we walked beside me, leaning slightly to the right as he carried my large mommy-bag.
These encounters with my sons’ chivalry, made me realize that my boys like having opportunities to serve and be useful. My part is to make them feel appreciated and affirmed when they think of others before themselves. I also have to be careful not to quell their innate heroism by acting like I can do everything myself. The right combination of all of these things does wonders to motivate my boys to rise to the need of the occasion. And hey, I love being treated like a lady!
