Giving Choices. "Do you want me to pray or sing a song?"

This Week's Challenge: Give Choices.  
Assignment: Give your child choices throughout the week, & report back here.
Quote of the day:

• "Never give a choice on an issue that might cause a problem for you or for anyone else.
• For each choice, give only two options, each of which will be OK with you.
• If the child doesn't decide in ten seconds, decide for him or her.
• Only give choices that fit with your value system." Jim Fay

My story:
Bedtime. I was thinking about one of Jim Fay's examples of bedtime choices, "Do you want water from the bathroom sink or the kitchen sink?" etc.  Great examples. But tonight I came up with some of my own. At first, they were deviant. "Do you want to ride on my back to bed or mommy's back?" Well, Stephanie didn't appreciate that. The heavier ones jumped on her back, but she made it. But my other offered choices were good: "Do you want a hug or a kiss?" "Do you want wear your pajamas or your clothes to bed?" That was Steph's question.

There are times my boys decline my bedtime prayer, or talk over my prayer. Yet I want that spiritual connection point. So I asked them. "Do you want me to pray with you or sing a song?" Jordan didn't respond, so I chose prayer for him. Joel wanted a song. He ended up with Amazing Grace. Jaron got Jesus Love Me. They all chimed in, and once or twice we actually were on pitch. By the end, Jordan figured out he wanted Shall We Gather at the River. But he'll have to wait till tomorrow night. 10 second rule. But what sweet spiritual moments.

Feel free to add your stories, questions, or comments below.