All of us hope our children will have a strong work ethic. When Ryan was a toddler I would sing the “Clean Up” song to remind him that play time was over and he needed to put his toys away. Regardless of his age, he always had a list of “jobs” that were his responsibility to complete. Today, he continues to assume responsibility for various jobs within the house: watering the plants, sweeping, emptying the dishwasher, making his bed and taking out the trash. His days are full with two jobs — working in maintenance at Bello’s Grocery Store and BNI. He tells me he wants to work hard so that he can earn money for movies, skiing, golf, LECOM and other fun activities. His work ethic is admirable and he receives praise from his supervisor for his dedication and hard work.
Ryan using the computer as a reinforcer.
One of the tools I had used to encourage his compliance with chore responsibilities was a job chart, which is why I was intrigued when I recently came across MyJobChart.com. This online tool provides an interactive “chore” system that teaches children the concepts that promote independence. The parent identifies the jobs to be completed, assigns points for each job, and, with their child, establishes rewards. The child then logs on with his/her own password and selects the job to be completed. Once completed, the child receives points that can be converted into dollars that are saved, spent or donated to charity. The parents are also notified when the child has completed the task and has selected a reward.
With over 687,000 members, My Job Chart has shown itself to be the modern equivalent of an old fashioned sticker chart. We know that our children enjoy using technology, and this site not only engages them, but teaches them responsibility, accountability, money management and problem solving — essential skills for individuals of all ages. This site is free for families and can be used with Apple and Android apps.
Try it and let me know if it works for your family.
Last year, my 
using fireworks. Some guidelines to follow:
As we begin the month of July I’m sure that many of you are planning your annual summer vacations. As I think back to our vacations, I recall how I initially approached flying with Ryan with trepidation. Would he remain calm passing through security? How would he deal with the crowds in the airport? How would he react to sitting on an airplane for a few hours? I knew that up until he got on the plane he would perseverate on flying, his way of dealing with the unknown. We did social stories and traveled to our local airport and watched the planes coming in and out. We also talked about how much he would enjoy his first airplane trip… and he did. Fortunately for both of us, his first flight was a success and I could look to future trips without a sense of foreboding.
The sun is shining on our students who are graduating this evening from the 
elementary school or 
That is what I will see tonight – 45 children and their families who’s “dreams have come true.”
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