Archived News from Family Chores

We all need to consider exactly what chores we expect our children to do around the house and at what age. When do we start assigning chores? What is too much? Should we reward them for their chores or should they be expected to do them because they are a part of the family.

Sometimes we get inundated with too many details and technicalities. I say keep it simple. Depending on age and their personal capabilities assign tasks that are appropriate. For instance if your child is a toddler purchase a small broom to have in the kitchen. When you are cleaning or sweeping yourself, encourage your child to pitch in. They will have fun helping mommy or daddy. Which is my next point… make it fun and engaging. We often associate chores as being a negative challenge and it shouldn’t be. Put on some music and dance around while your dusting. Your children will see that mommy is having fun and believe me it is all about attitude. You may even learn to enjoy yourself as well.

Most parents have the same complaint. “I can’t get my kids to help out around the house” “I’ve asked them a thousand times to pick up their clothes.” I’m so frustrated I feel like I’m beating my head against the wall” and of course “I feel like all I do is nag and I’m starting to resent it”….. Does any of this sound familiar? Well you are not alone.

Encourage your kids to help with a positive attitude by setting goals and targets for a job well done. This doesn’t mean you need to do it for everything they do around the house, pick and choose chores that you want to reward. For example you may reward a young child for brushing and flossing their teeth to support good hygiene, but an older child or teenager will already have these good habits.
For your teen you can reward them for all sorts of chores including personal growth like learning a musical instrument or a second language. Giving them a reward for their efforts gives them a sense of pride for their work and it will encourage them to continue doing so. Lets face it “In the REAL WORLD” success is rewarded to those who work hard.

When you look at the big picture, if you don’t teach them now, your not doing them any favors. If you keep getting so frustrated when you ask them to pick up their clothes and then take care of it because you think it’s easier than asking them to do it again, what are you teaching them. Pretty much nothing, except that they can be lazy and it will get done anyway. Reality will hit when they’re on their own and they don’t know how to do anything!

Do your kids a favor, take the time, teach them to be responsible and enable them to be independent. Starting at an earlier age is a great idea, but remember there’s no time like the present. If your teen hasn’t established a good work ethic help them do it now! You won’t be sorry.