Raising Habit Heroes, One Step at a Time.

Sylvia Tam -

Welcome to "Happy Habits with Sylvia," where we turn everyday parenting challenges into joyful wins with simple, actionable steps.

Last week, Tammy shared her powerful Educate, Elevate, Empower framework, and it got me thinking: what if we apply that same idea to building habits in our families?

Here’s how it works:

  • Educate: Understand that habits aren’t about willpower or getting it perfect. It’s all about how our brains work. Think of habit-building like an experiment—try small tweaks and learn what clicks!
  • Elevate: Celebrate even the smallest wins! When we feel good, our brains release feel-good hormones like dopamine, which makes us want to repeat the behavior. Change happens when we feel good, not when we feel bad. A big “You’re awesome!” or a high-five isn’t just fun—it’s the secret to making habits stick.
  • Empower: See your kids as habit masters in the making! Even tiny steps, like carrying their plate to the sink or wiping the table, build their confidence and sense of capability. Big transformations start with these small actions, and when you trust the process, you’ll see incredible progress.

This week, I’m thrilled to share our first interactive Q&A! Thank you to everyone who sent in questions. Let’s dive into one challenge and explore how a tiny shift can lead to big change for both you and your kids.

What’s the trick to starting new habits with kids?

"I spend so much time in the kitchen after dinner that I end up staying up too late just to finish everything. I haven’t been great at getting my kids to help clean up, and now it feels like it’s too late to start. How can I get them involved so I can wrap up faster and get to bed earlier?" - Shelly H

First of all, it’s never too late to start. You don’t need to get your kids to help all at once or take on huge tasks. The key is starting small—so small it feels effortless.

For example, instead of asking them to clean the whole table, try this: have a cloth ready at dinner, and after your child finishes eating, ask them to wipe their own table area.

That’s it—just one tiny step.

And be sure to celebrate! A fist pump, a big “You’re awesome!” or even singing them an 80s tune can make them laugh and feel great about helping.

Once that habit feels natural, you can add another step, like asking them to carry their plate to the sink or hand you their fork. Over time, these small shifts will grow into bigger habits, and cleanup will feel like a team effort.

Here’s the key: focus on progress, not perfection. Celebrate the little wins and enjoy the quality time you gain when your family works together!

Have a habit or behavior question? Share it on our REK Facebook Group or email me —I’m happy to help 😊

Spark Joy: Mindful Cleaning Tips

Have you been thinking about how to make cleaning more fun?

In Episode #43, I sat down with Brittany Blansett—founder and CEO of NYA Cleaning Co.—to chat about her passion for mindfulness cleaning and empowering young minds. From creative strategies to tips for maintaining a clean and harmonious home, our conversation is sure to inspire you (and maybe even your kids!) to get involved with a smile.

🎧 Listen now: Click here to tune in!

Explore more inspiring stories & strategies on the Mompreneurs Raising Kidpreneurs podcast, where I shine the light on purposeful parents who are empowering their kids, just like you!

I hope today’s tips inspire you to try a small shift in your family’s routines—whether it’s wiping the table, celebrating tiny wins, or finding joy in the little moments. Remember, big changes start small!

Next week, we’ll explore how to keep habits growing and add some fun, creative ways to involve your kids in the process. And don’t forget to share your habit or behavior questions with me—I’d love to feature them in a future edition!

Until next time, keep celebrating those small wins and enjoying the journey.

Sylvia Tam, The Purposeful Parent, Certified Tiny Habits® Coach