A while back I posted my new idea of using timers to give the kids alone time/ reading time and to give me a little break during a crazy time of the day.  We started off at 10 min for each of the kids and we are now up to 25 min. Mason is at the kitchen table with his books and the girls are in each of their beds with books. I like to do it between 4:30-5:00. It’s a good time for the kids to have their own space and for me to do last minute dinner things, set the table, fill milk cups etc. The kids know the routine and pick out the books they want for their time. I’ve been pleasantly surprised how quickly (relatively speaking) they have grown accustomed to the routine and for the most part with no complaints. Even if they are complaining I still stick to the routine because I REALLY like this time to take a breather before the last couple of hours of our day. And it helps the craziness of dinner go a little more smoothly.

But I don’t want to leave you with the impression that every time they sit quietly and read their books as they are supposed to. Rarely are they quiet, usually yelling reading aloud. Yesterday, I left the kitchen for a minute and came back to find Mason stripped down to his underwear, fighting in a imaginary battle with his sword. (wish I had a picture!)  and I found the girls had a different plan as well. See pic below. This new routine is a work in progress!