I had been having some issues with my son, primarily with getting homework done, so I made him a list. We'll as I was writing it, I realized that maybe a list like this would help DH, with his kids (mostly the one) behavioral problems. So I drafted one that encompassed everthing and DH liked it. Here is the list... (My 3 rules for my son have always been respect, responsibility and accountibility - so I tried to lay them out under each header)

Respect

1)Respect others things/property (This means picking up after self, keeping bathroom clean/flushing/changing toilet paper when empty/wiping up floor after shower, don’t leave messes in common areas (kitchen/living room, etc), turning off lights and TV’s when not in use, not using others property without permission)
2)Respect others space and time. (This means no lurking/staring/making faces/eves dropping/butting in on conversations/butting into others time with friends, be appreciative when someone does something for you, don’t expect others to entertain you, etc.)
3)Speak Nicely. (No snotty or whiny tone, if you have nothing nice to say – say nothing, no interjecting self into behavior issues that don’t pertain to yourself, etc)
4) Food - No snacking without asking.
5)Have good behavior (No whining, constant complaining, pestering adults about being bored, this general rule of good behavior encompasses all of the rules).

Responsibility

1)Complete homework – All homework will be completed at least 2 hours prior to bedtime (make sure to schedule parent help if needed)
2)Get ready for bed when bedtime is nearing, go to bed on time (Bedtimes: Specific to child)
3)Curfew is per Dakota County, MN law: Under age 12 Sun-Thurs 9PM, Fri & Sat 10PM - Ages 12-14 Sun-Thurs 10PM, Fri & Sat 11PM
4)All food/drinks taken into bedrooms must be removed within 24 hours.
5)Laundry – place dirty laundry in basket prior to Sunday morning (or it will not be washed)

Accountability

1)Accept the final answer. Arguing a point is okay, but after point has been made, respect the decision of the adult. Absolutely no tantruming, screaming, whining, yelling, etc. about the decision.
2)You will be held accountable for following these rules. Consequences will be enforced (as deemed appropriate by adult).

So kids responses -
My Son: "Okay mom, why'd you write all that out, isnt that common sense? But I have one question, sitting on the deck with my friends on Friday night doesnt break curfew right? I wasn't sure the way its written?"

7 year old skid: "Okay" (She almost seemed a bit excited for the rules)

And the funny one.... (This is the skid with behavioral issues)

10 year old skid: "How long do I have to do this?"

HAHAHAHAHAHAHA - I laughed out loud!