'For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge' took a year to record; that's why the playing on it might sound somewhat labored. 'Balance,' on the other hand, was written and recorded in only four months, so the whole process was quicker and more immediate.
The Golden Rule of Parenting is; do unto your children as you wish your parents had done unto you!
Cleanliness is very important. If you let kids make a total mess in the kitchen and then leave, you're not really teaching them anything.