Convenience is the Problem

I created the term, ‘convenience trap’.  A convenience trap is when you do things to get through the day, moment or situation. You have no expectations of the outcome and you will not challenge yourself to do things differently.

With that being said, I ask; How do you expect your child to make progress if you are caught in the convenience trap? You are doing all the work with minimal to no expectations for your child to be an active participant in their day to day events. You are exhausting yourself more than necessary. It’s time to change your mindset!

Two things you definitely need to stop doing in order to increase your child’s life skills abilities, if your child is able : 
1. getting your child’s requested items (readily accessible)
2. completing your child’s personal and community tasks

I understand you may want to keep a smile on their face or get things done faster; however, you are digging yourself deeper into the convenience trap. Catering to your child is teaching them to expect your service AND nothing is required of them to get what they want. If your child is able to complete any step of a life skill, develop their ability.  Focus on the skill by creating practice opportunities, follow through and expect results. Having expectations will drive you to see what more they can do.

As parents we should foster independent skills to meet our child’s abilities.  Far too often parents aren’t aware of their child’s abilities and potential because minimal activity is required (expected) and their home environment does not present functional learning opportunities.  Convenience is the easy way and the wrong way.

Say “hello” to inconvenience. Inconveniencing yourself involves consistency, follow through, action and expectations.  Inconvenience will require more of you during the transformation. However, the results will make it well worth your time, energy, and sacrifice of self. No more just getting through the day. 

I challenge you to change your mindset by focusing on your child’s abilities instead of their disability. Stop coddling your child today!….convenience is your problem!

Blessings,
Sandra