One of the most asked questions…
How do you get kids to do chores around the house. Typically, parents decorate a beautiful sticker/chore chart with sparkles and candy scented stickers or stars… and get all ready to teach their kid the chores to the house. And the parent sits with the child and discusses chores, the importance of chores, and the reward for completing the chore. This works for about three days- a week at most- (results may differ) and mom is back to square one picking up after everyone and cursing under her breath that no one helps out and all of the things she could be doing instead… Sound familiar?
Kids learn that :
- Mom huffs and puffs and nothing happens until…
- Mom is scary when she yells and only to be taken seriously when she yells
- Women are the martyrs and the “crazy ones” for not keeping their cool
- If there is something in it for them, then it is worth doing. Teamwork only counts if there’s a trophy at the end.
Moms learn that:
They are alone in the struggle of raising kids.
They are “crazy” for wanting help and think there is something wrong with them if they can’t get it all done.
Kids only listen when yelled at.
Their kids will turn into spoiled brats who only work through threats and bribery
Motherhood is meant to be mentally and physically draining.
What if…kids would do their share without the yelling? What would that take? I think first off, let’s start with what is developmentally appropriate. Then, let’s get into the logistics.
What do you think?
We love our kids so much and provide for them selflessly for their entire lives, but with that comes a bonus – help with chores! Not only do chores teach our kids responsibility, but they often actually like helping out. Kids are always looking for acceptance and to make their parents happy, so giving them chores is the perfect way to check off those boxes and keep your house clean. Here are some age-appropriate chores that you can give to your little one. And make sure to give them positive reinforcement when the task is complete – it’s a win-win!
