Very Simple Rules

We needed a small number of very simple rules, each with a clear consequence for breaking it but with a provision for repentance by which apologetic children could avoid the consequence or penalty.  

	PEACE:	Or you sit on the "repenting bench" with the other "fighter" until you can say what you did wrong and give the other kid a hug and ask him to forgive you.  - "it takes two to tangle"-
	RESPECT:	Or we'll start over until you get it right and give a respectful answer.  If I ask you to do something and you whine about it or give an excuse, I'll start over and try to ask you very politely but very directly, until I get a respectful answer
	ORDER:	Get your room straight or face the penalty that you cannot go anywhere until you clean it up.
	ASKING:	If you want something you know you should ask for, ask.  If you don’t, the next time you want it, the answer will be NO.  We want to always know where you are, so if you forget to ask, the next time you want to go somewhere the answer will be no.  The same penalty applies to curfew.
	OBEDIENCE:	You can ask why and I will try to tell you, and possibly even reconsider, but only ask why once and then obey.  Remember, someday you will be the parent.