What if, we gave our kids the gift of being brutally honest with us?
I had this thought today. Maybe type up some questions or fill-in-the-blank sentences, wrap it up with a bow and stick it in their stockings.
And hope they will take the time to answer. Candidly. Bravely. Boldly. Laced with love, not harshness.
A few ideas:
1). I wish, MOM, that you would___________________________
2). I wish, MOM, that you would NOT______________________
3). I love it when you______________________________________
4). I get really mad when you____________________________
5). I get embarrassed when you__________________________
6). Please don’t cook ___________________ ever again.
7). Please make _________________ more often.
8). My best memory from this year was__________________
9). My worst memory from this year was_________________
10). Our family can improve on____________________________
11). Our family does this _______________________ really well.
12). I know that I am loved because_______________________
What would you add to the list? Would you have them fill out something like this for every member of the family?
We are not a family that does regular “family meetings”. (I think it’s a great idea.) Maybe you do, and you all communicate along these lines, or try to foster this type of communication. I feel like I may do some of it individually, but not very often.
I’m going to try this. Ask me how it goes. Ask me IF MY KIDS FILL THIS OUT. And if I remember to create time and space for them to do this. Ask me if I nag them or if I gently remind them.
Ask me IF I am glad that I did this, how I felt, and what came of it.
Merry Christmas!
Kirsten says
I am SO doing this Jess!
Rory says
Great idea! It is like a “performance review” for the family and can serve as interesting conversation starters too. Might have to try and then hold my breath.
Jet says
Love this! Great stocking stuffer idea!
Dana Dixon says
Brilliant!
Ade says
Love this idea, friend! Take it all with a grain of salt. Just the simple posture of asking them questions about their ideas, opinions, and views is a gift. When I was a kid, my dad was a “because I said so, that’s why!” type…this shows them love on so many levels! You are a good mama! Thanks for the idea! Can’t wait to check in and see what comes of it!
katie says
love this idea!! let’s check in after the new year 😉
Paria says
Great idea!!!! We may just have to do this!