Parenting the 8, 10 & 12 Year Old Leader

I'll give the bottom line first.

My vision for my children includes self-sufficiency,
and that they would lead by making the world a better place for others.

I desire my children to accomplish the tasks of everyday life and then some.

Now, how about my kids?

My 8 year old needs me to stay with her through the self-discipline stage until it becomes a habit. Her chores are meant to do more than keep the house clean on a weekly basis, they are a tool to help her gain some control of her own actions.

My 10 year old has learned that the obnoxious task must be done, now she is learning the lesson of quality. She needs me to insist on quality control and perseverance. Do the job right and it stays done longer. Her chores are a tool to help her gain a level of pride in her accomplishments now.

My 12 year old is learning to go above and beyond in his actions. My role with him is to do quality control and open his eyes to optional things to do to enhance our world. He has the option of doing them, but to see them and take initiative is my goal. He is just now learning that when he does well it is good for other people, and when he goes beyond it helps him more than it does others. His chores are an opportunity for growth.

Why is this important? Because as adults they will exhibit the level of maturity regarding their functionality based on their self-sufficiency and ability to get things done in a timely manner on their own.

I'm watching this play out at work, and am once again committing myself to guiding my children into the realm where they are more than "good employees". I want my kids to lead in making life better for everyone, even at work.

How about you?