Beat The Clock

When I was growing up, there was a game show on TV called "Beat the Clock." The whole premise of the show was to complete ridiculous games before the time ran out. For some reason, it was one of my favorite game shows as a child. Sometimes, life can feel like a round of "Beat the Clock", especially when your school bus arrives at 6:40 in the morning. Middle schooler Nickie, a recent addition to the Calvary Home family, was struggling to get out the door on time. Even though she got up early, somehow, time always managed to slip away and she was narrowly making the bus. Although time management seems like it should be a no-brainer, its an important skill many people struggle with, especially children in foster care. Time management is not only important for making the bus on time, but much of being a successful adult relies on effective time management. Paying bills on time, managing a home, getting to work on time, and completing work tasks or projects efficiently all rely on this foundational skill.

Houseparents Whitney and Crisitian jumped into action to help Nickie develop this vitally important life skill while still in middle school. Several strategies Whitney and Cristian have implemented include having Nickie pick out her outfit the night before, and putting a clock in her room to help her keep her eye on the time as she is getting ready in the morning. Nickie has been putting in the effort to get up and get going in the morning, and is learning how to effectively manage her time. We rejoice in this seemingly small victory, because this skill will set her up for success in the future.