“Stuff the box”

The best way to teach your kids stuff you feel is important is to get down in the trenches and do it with them. This idea is posted on my other blog, “have fun with it”, but I wanted to share because it’s a fun thing to do with your kiddos.

I am BIG on teaching kids how to “pay attention” to things we often sort of skip over. (I am actually writing a thesis on it now) This could be a one time shot, or an ongoing thing and I am going to cross fingers on the latter.

First, have on hand some blank paper; I like 2″ by 3″ cards that you keep in your car, backpack, diaper bag, stroller pockets, purse, bike basket, or stuffed in your socks…(you can cut them our of anything or use post it notes) AND something to write with. As you walk or drive (just out) with kids IF any of you sees a house (or it can be even more like a car, a building, even a park) that has something really special or cool that strikes your fancy (that means you really really like it), yell out, “Stuff the box.” Stop the car, bike, stroller, walk.

This means that you actually stop what you are doing, write on that card “WOW, I love your sunflowers in your yard..” or “I love how you decorated for Halloween…” or “I love the color you painted your front door…” and you stuff their mailbox with the note. That’s it. Then you get back on your way and feel glad. What you don’t realize is that someone is going to open that mailbox, get that letter and look both ways and smile really big and feel super duper happy someone noticed. That is the best part!