Activity 4.1 Our Family Rules

Together as a family, create rules that establish rights and responsibilities, teach children pro-social values, and keep them safe. When children help make rules, they are more likely to obey them. Next, establish rewards for following family rules. The following week, add negative consequences for breaking them. Rules that are fair, firm, and consistently reinforced and enforced, help children feel more secure and develop better self-control.

Here is a list of common family rules:

• Let us know where you are, and what you are doing
• No hitting
• No alcohol, tobacco or drugs
• Don’t argue with your parents
• Do what parents say the first time
• Ask permission before you go
• Look for ways to be helpful and kind
• Put away things you take out
• Respect each other’s property
• Treat each other with respect
• Be honest
• Do chores without complaint

Your final list of family rules should be five to eight rules, and posted somewhere in your home everyone can see them (the fridge or a bedroom door, for example.)