It wasn’t a requirement for us but I thought it would be a good idea to come up with some solid House Rules before we have any kiddos bouncing around in our house. I took some inspiration from others’ house rules (K&D and Meg from whatever…though I can’t find the specific posts) and some design inspiration from here, and came up with 6 House Rules for our home.
When our home study writer asked me on the spot if we had any house rules, all I could say was “no hitting, no breaking things, no throwing toys across the room…you know, normal parenting stuff.” All of that seems like a given to me and falls under the umbrella of “show love,” because really part of showing love is respecting other people and property. “Take risks” could be twisted, I suppose. Running out in front of a car is taking a risk. Standing on the dining room table is taking a risk. But, taking risks is an important value in our household and what I’m really thinking of is … Take a risk and try the brussel sprouts even though they look gross. Take a risk and trust us to love and parent you even though you’ve had your heart broken by adults in the past.
We have little L with us now and she’s too young to really understand the rules much. She’s great at showing love, taking risks, doing her best and having fun. Work together needs a little tweaking, especially when it comes to diaper changes and snotty nose wiping. But she is already learning so much. Yesterday papa taught her how to blow her nose in a tissue and how to say please. And tell the truth? Well, she’s 1. It’s hard to tell sometime whether she’s lying or mistaken, especially with yes or no questions.
You can download a free printable (8.5×11) PDF of these house rules if you’d like.
myMCMlife.com 
How cool is that?!!! Love you guys.
This is a super idea! I think I am going to come up with a little list of my own. I love your Fonts! I studied computer graphic design before I started law school and they are just wicked awesome.
So cute. Love the house rules. Are you going to put them up anywhere? Like a poster framed or something? That would be cute.
They’re hanging on the side of our refrigerator, right by the dining room table. 🙂
Love these rules! (And love the graphic design!) Would you mind if I reposted this on my blog this week (and linked to and credited you)? Please email and let me know…thanks in advance…
Wow – it’s a small Internet. I always listen to K&D on FosterPodcast, but I got to your site from Apartment Therapy! LOVE the rules poster … well done. I’ve been approved to adopt since last October, and I begin Foster Parent training on September 15th! I can’t wait.