A New Parent-Sheriff

Here’s my evil plan. Lately, as the new school year routines take shape, I’ve been insisting that my children (now ages 15 and 11) make their own beds. I mean, insisting like I mean it, like it’s part of their job as part of our family, like: “No, Adam, you cannot roll up the sheet into a third pillow and put your blanket over it.” And you know what? They’re beginning to hit their strides!

But here’s what they don’t realize: That picking up after themselves, making their own lunches, and sharing in laundry and some cooking responsibilities are soon to follow.

There’s a new parent-sheriff in town, and he’s decided to raise children who might actually be independent and resilient spirits by time they leave the nest.

And how was your week?

Eric Messinger is the editor of  New York Family. He can be reached at [email protected]