10 family rules

Here are 10 family rules that you can bring to the table and incorporate into your family’s brainstorm or discussion;

(1) Treat yourself and others with respect: The Golden Rule applies first and foremost in our family. For example; no put downs, yelling, hitting. kicking, pinching, name-calling. This applies to what you say to others and what you say to yourself in the mirror! Say please, thank you, sorry, you’re welcome, and excuse me when warranted.

(2) Be honest and trustworthy: Integrity is valued in our family. For example; tell the truth, don’t omit details to attempt to avoid consequences, mean what you say and say what you mean, and follow through with promises.

(3) Be responsible and accountable: When you make a mistake, own up, apologize, and ask how you can make it better.  Then take action to correct your mistake and improve upon the situation. If you need help fixing a situation, ask a parent (or trusted caretaker).

(4) Clean up your own mess: If you take it out, you put it back.

(5) Show respect for people’s property: Knock before entering, ask permission before you use something, put it back better than you found it. If you break it, rip it, or mess it up, replace it or fix it.

(6) Do not argue or talk back to your parents in a disrespectful way: Voice your opinion but respect the final decision made by your parents who make decisions based on what is best for the family, you and your well-being.

(7) Ask permission before you go out somewhere: First, ask your parents if you can go.  Be sure to tell parents or whoever is in charge who you will be with, where you are going, how you can be contacted, and when you will be home. Then do what you said you would do!

(8) Do what Mom and Dad ask you to do the first time they request it: Stalling, ignoring, tantruming, complaining, rolling eyes and grunting are unacceptable responses. (This shows respect)

(9) Show gratitude: We are a blessed family.  Take time each day to say thank you for what you have, the people in your life, and the opportunities provided to you.

(10) Actively seek out ways to be kind and helpful to others: You do not need to wait to be invited to help.  We live in a home together, therefore we all need to pitch in! We are all encouraged to provide unprompted, sincere praise for someone else or a show of affection to ensure that every family member feels valued and loved.

A follow-up meeting can be designed around consequences of breaking the family rules and rewards for those who go above and beyond without prompting. You may want to incorporate sticker charts or vision boards depending on what works best for your children.

Good luck! I’d love to hear your family rules and how you are making them work for your family.