A mother from the United States has ignited a conversation online after revealing the three strict rules she enforces for her children during every family holiday.
The Triplet Mum's Unconventional Holiday Regime
Stephanie Woodward, a parent to triplets and two foster children, shared her approach with her 43,000 Instagram followers on her account, @wctriplets. She framed her methods as being focused on long-term development, captioning her video: "I'm just trying to raise smart, polite humans who know how to get where they're going." Her rules apply universally, whether the family is at home, in Washington DC, or enjoying the sun in the Cayman Islands.
Rule One: The Daily Maths Worksheet
Stephanie's first rule is academic. "Every single day of summer vacation, my older boys do one maths worksheet," she explained. The work is tailored to the grade they are about to enter. Her goal is clear: to prevent the "summer slump" in learning and to ensure her sons feel "really prepared and excited for the year ahead of them." This practice aims to maintain educational momentum during the long break.
Rule Two: Children Become The Navigators
The second rule puts the children in charge of directions. "I make them navigate everywhere we go," Stephanie stated. Whether exploring a tourist hotspot or a resort, her children are tasked with reading the map and guiding the family. She accepts that this might lead to wrong turns and wasted time, believing the long-term benefit is invaluable. "I want them to be able to navigate for themselves as they continue to get older," she said, adding that the children feel a great sense of pride when they successfully lead the way.
Rule Three: The Non-Negotiable Rule Reading
The third rule is one Stephanie admits has drawn eye-rolls and dirty looks from other parents. "Anytime we go somewhere that there is a set of rules outside, I make my kids read the rules." This applies to locations like water parks and play areas. She doesn't consider it controversial, viewing it as a simple lesson in awareness and responsibility.
Online Reaction: Praise for 'Fabulous Parenting'
The response from viewers was overwhelmingly positive, with many applauding her techniques. One supporter commented, "Honestly great, sounds like equipping them to be adults." Another called it "fabulous parenting: responsibilities, opportunities, creativity, tons of fun, and accountability."
A third viewer specifically endorsed the rules-based approach: "Amazing!!! I would always make them read the rules!!! Love the following a map. Great job!" The sentiment was echoed by a teacher, who wrote: "As a teacher, I applaud you on all three!!!" The online discussion highlights a growing interest in parenting styles that prioritise practical life skills and continuous learning, even during leisure time.
