I believe that all of us want our children to become self-propelled, respectful, responsible adults.

One small step on helping them on that journey is having “The Kid Drawer.”

It’s been around in our house since our oldest was two…

The concept is pretty simple: have the “kid” stuff accessible to the kids. That way, as they grow and mature, they can help themselves, as well as help in general:

When they are hungry and wanting a snack - ask them to get themselves a cup/bowl/spoon/fork before you proceed in pouring the applesauce/Goldfish/strawberries and blueberries.
When you are setting the table for supper - ask them to grab their table setting. And eventually their sibling’s (if applicable).
When you are unloading the dishwasher - ask them put their silverware away. And eventually their plates/bowls/cups as well.

This can be implemented at your house, Grandma’s house, and even the babysitter’s house!

Teaching your children to be responsible begins with giving them responsibility - even one spoon/fork/plate/bowl/cup at a time.

What you’ll need:

an “easy-access” drawer/door/shelf
kid plates
kid bowls
kid cups
toddler spoons & forks
a small basket to keep silverware in (optional)

Teaching your children to be responsible begins with giving them responsibility.