Allowing kids to select from pre-vetted Choice Cards when determining the schedule for the day or what kind of restaurant to try, develops their skills in how to make appropriate choices in the future.

Have you ever planned a fun day for your family only to have a kid complain about a different fun activity they’d rather be doing? Instead of grumbling about my kids’ ingratitude, I can eliminate this possibly scenario by including them in the decision-making process. Win-win.

Other added benefits:

• makes kids see how they play an important role in the family
• kids are developing decision-making skills
• allows opportunity for compromise
• reduces unproductive conversations

Directions:

1. Adults make a list of reasonable possibilities.
2. Create cards with the title, image, and description.
3. Ask kids to make a choice and offer guidance:
   • What would you like to do first?
   • What is another activity that might pair well?
   • If you’re having a hard time choosing, what are the pros and cons?
   • Should we save this one for another time?
4. Once choices have been selected, discuss what time to be ready and what items are needed (hiking boots, towel, bike helmet, etc.).