I found this poem quite by chance and it made me think. Adults often think that kids today take things for granted. If they do, perhaps we should ask ourselves where they learned to be this way. Are we sometimes a little hard on kids and expect too much? Do we sometimes forget that we are meant to help and guide them to be better than ourselves?
What House Do You Live In?
“I got two A’s,” the small boy cried.
His voice was filled with glee.
His father very bluntly asked,
“Why didn’t you get three?”
“Mom. I’ve got the dishes done!”
The girl called from the door.
Her mother very calmly said,
“And did you sweep the floor?”
“I’ve mowed the grass,” the tall boy said,
“And put the mower away!”
His father asked him, with a shrug.
“Did you clean off the clay?”
The children in the house next door
Seem happy and content.
The same things happened over there,
But this is how it went:
“I got two A’s,” the small boy cried,
His voice was filled with glee.
His father proudly said, “That’s great!
I’m glad you live with me!”
“Mom, I’ve got the dishes done!
The girl called from the door.
Her mother smiled and softly said.
“Each day I love you more.”
“I’ve mowed the grass.” the tall boy said.
“And put the mower away!”
His father answered with much joy.
“You’ve made my happy day!”
Children deserve a little praise
For tasks they’re asked to do
If they’re to lead a happy life.
So much depends on you.
Author Unknown
Kind words and a little praise cost nothing but can mean so much to a child, of any age. They may reward you by regarding you as not just their parent but also their friend.
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! Will have to be creative instead (not one of my strong points 
) - any suggestions for things to do/make would be appreciated!
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