Not only is a big help to have everyone in your home pitching in with chores but it’s a good idea and good for your KIDS to learn the discipline of helping out around the house.
Getting kids to do chores isn’t easy, that’s just a fact we all deal with. As a matter of fact, one survey found that almost three quarter of kids don’t do chores unless they’re asked-so you need to ask!
Sometimes, it seems easier to just do chores yourself without asking your kids to pitch-in but that’s not a great idea, for you or for them.
So, how can you get your kids to help with chores? Here are some ideas that might just help!
Remember, You’re Teaching Life Skills
Many of us would agree we seem to have a generation of kids who don’t know how to do anything. Take a moment to think about that and you’ll quickly realize that, in many cases, it’s the parents who have failed to teach them the skills they need to grow into good, high-functioning adults.
According to James Sears, MD, co-author of the book “Father’s First Steps: 25 Things Every Dad Should Know, when kids do chores, they learn responsibility. Think about that one for a moment. Chores help kids grow into responsible adults who can take care of themselves-a pretty important aspect of development.
Make Chores Predictable
Maybe it’s a good idea to have “chore time” with the entire family at a certain time each week. When kids know when chores need to be done around the house, each week, it will help to minimize the battles you have over getting things done around the house.
Chores Need To Be Age Appropriate
It’s not appropriate to expect a 5 year old to mow the grass or do laundry but it may be for your 14 year old. Make sure that when you’re determining which chores your child needs to help with, it’s one that’s “age appropriate”.
Make Chores Personal
If your child cleans their room and can see the results of their work, the reward is much greater than helping to clean the living room. When chores are more personal, the lessons about self-reliance and responsibility are more impactful.
Think Apps
Let’s face it, the idea of putting a calendar on the fridge with a list of chores that need to be performed isn’t as technologically exciting as having a more up-to-date visual kids can review. Check out apps for your older children who have phones, etc. that will help them, and you, to track chores that need to be performed. Use technology to your advantage!
Many parents are working longer hours than ever before and need help! Remember, by teaching your kids how to help and be more responsible while they’re home with you, you’ll be teaching them the skills they’ll need to be responsible, happier adults.
Good Luck!
Source: webmd.com