Simpson Family Rules

Okay, admittedly most of these are borrowed from other sources, but why recreate what is already good? I am planning on drawing these up to hang on my wall.

• No one is perfect. No one is better or worse than us.  Treat yourself, each other, and others equally and with respect. Love yourself and love each other. And know you are always, always loved by us, your parents, and by your Heavenly Father. borrowed

• Every family member will do their best to avoid yelling (deep breathing, counting to 10, and walking away can all help). If yelling occurs, responsibility will be taken and apologies will be made. 

• It is always okay to make mistakes. Whether you're a grown-up or a kid, you will make mistakes, so don't sweat it. Mistakes can almost always be rectified by talking or hugging.

• No tattling on your brother or sister unless there is blood, water or fire. Work it out on your own!

• No hitting in this family, ever, for any reason. Hitting is never a good way to deal with anger. Except when Daddy is dealing with the computer, which is clearly possessed.

• Apologies are to be made while looking each other in the eye and will include all of the following: 1) an "I’m sorry for..."; 2) an "Are you okay?" (if applicable); 3) an “I love you” on both sides; and 4) a giant hug. Laughter is optional, but one should expect it to happen.

• If you need to be alone for any reason, you can always retreat to your room and close the door. (Note: slamming doors is never appropriate.) Closed doors are to be respected and only opened after knocking.

• Screen time is defined as time spent watching TV, playing video games, or playing on the computer. Screen time is earned and can be taken away for many reasons. Doing chores, homework, and keeping your room clean can usually result in relatively unlimited screen time.  Whining will result in instant loss of screen time, every time, without fail. If you can wipe your own butt, you are too old to speak Whinese.

• When out of sight, whether walking home from school or playing outside, children are to stand up for each other, no matter the circumstances. If approached by an adult who asks for help, remember that an adult never asks a child for help if he/she truly needs it. Don’t be afraid to yell NO and walk or run away.  If grabbed, don’t be afraid to kick, punch, yell, and make a ton of noise.

• Everything is open for discussion. Kids are encouraged to ask any questions, no matter how silly or uncomfortable, and will always receive honest answers and dialogue from parents. Kids can approach parents at any time and about any subject and are encouraged to know all the facts so they can make the right decisions.