The Kindness Jar

I'm a mommy of four energetic boys ages 6,7,10, and 12.  I love being a mom and embrace it fully.  However, some days are just hard and exhausting, especially when the boys are bickering with one another.

One morning, I was totally frustrated with the squabbling in our home.  I don't remember the specifics of that day, but I know we were rushing around trying to get ready for school, and the boys were not getting along.  In a home with several siblings, the possibilities are endless.  It could've been over the last piece of bacon, a glaring look, unkind words, first dibs on the bathroom, or determining who would get the last pair of Nike socks, etc.  What I do remember is being frustrated---with how challenging it is to create a squabble free environment.

On that particular morning as I washed the dishes at the kitchen sink, I asked God for wisdom.  That is when He gave me the idea for "The Kindness Jar".  Wow, it was a simple idea and I already had the supplies:  a mason jar and marbles.  I told the boys we would be looking for random acts of kindness throughout the week.  When we saw them being kind to one another we would place a marble in the jar.  There were 2 stipulations. 1) They could not ask for a marble. 2) They did not get a marble for every act of kindness.  Once their marbles filled the jar, they would all be rewarded. 

Here are a few ideas for rewards:

--A trip out for ice cream

--A trip out to Starbucks

--A round of miniature golf

--A visit to an indoor trampoline facility

--A family outing to Dave and Busters

While my boys, like most siblings, still argue over trivial matters, "The Kindness Jar" helped my hubby and I take note and praise the boys more often for their positive behaviors.  It also helped the boys be mindful to encourage each other and act in kindness.  The next time I have a "frustrated mommy moment" I hope I remember to ask God for wisdom and help.  

Hopefully, this will be a great parenting tool for your family.  

This is one of my favorite verses on kindness to pray over the boys and myself:

"..clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Col 3:12