Cheaper by the Dozen

01The Unconventional Life of the Gilbreth Family

In the heart of Montclair, New Jersey, a family of fourteen bustled about in a house that was anything but ordinary. This was the Gilbreth family, a unique blend of personalities, each with their own quirks and charms. The parents, Frank and Lillian, were pioneers in the field of motion study, and they applied their professional principles to their family life with surprising and often humorous results. The Gilbreth family was a lively bunch, each member playing a distinct role in the household. Frank, the father, was a larger-than-life figure, a man of innovation and efficiency. Lillian, the mother, was the calm amidst the storm, a woman of wisdom and patience. The twelve children, including authors Frank Jr. and Ernestine, were a mix of personalities, from the serious-minded to the mischievous, each contributing to the family's dynamic in their own way. The unconventional parenting methods of the Gilbreths were rooted in their professional expertise. They applied the principles of motion study to their family life, aiming to make tasks simpler and more efficient. For instance, they taught their children to button their shirts from the bottom up to save time, and they even turned chores into games to make them more enjoyable. These methods instilled a strong work ethic in the children, teaching them the value of time and efficiency. Life in the Gilbreth household was a blend of chaos and joy. With twelve children, there was never a dull moment. Yet, amidst the chaos, there was a strong sense of camaraderie and support among the siblings. They learned to navigate the ups and downs of life together, finding joy in the simplest of moments. The Gilbreths emphasized independence and resourcefulness in their children. They were encouraged to solve problems on their own and to learn from their mistakes. Education was also a top priority in the family. The children were taught to value knowledge and to constantly seek learning opportunities. Despite the strict regimen, there was always room for fun and laughter in the Gilbreth household. Frank Jr. and Ernestine, as authors and children of the family, provide a unique perspective on growing up Gilbreth. Their personal accounts and anecdotes paint a vivid picture of the joys, challenges, and quirks of their unconventional upbringing. They attest to the effectiveness of their parents' innovative parenting methods, crediting them for their success in life. In conclusion, the Gilbreth family was a testament to the power of unconventional parenting methods. Their unique lifestyle, rooted in efficiency and learning, shaped the children into independent, resourceful individuals. The enduring legacy of the Gilbreth family serves as a reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting, and that sometimes, the most unconventional methods can yield the most extraordinary results.