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Chores For Children

They moan, they groan, they fuss, they procrastinate and they flat out refuse to do them unless something they hold dear is hung over their heads. We’re talking about children and chores – and just how do you get them to work together harmoniously in today’s busy world?

Although many parents agree that chores are necessary to teach children things such as discipline, self-reliance, responsibility, a healthy work ethic, and accountability, most kids move out of their homes today, unable to wash their clothes, let alone a kitchen dish! Why? Because today’s busy parents feel it’s actually much easier to do it themselves, after all, their children are under enough pressure just living in today’s world and going to school!

However, it’s important that parents keep in mind that chores teach children key values, and that running a home today requires shared responsibilities. Additionally, chores help children prepare for more adult-like responsibilities and help them develop a sense of pride for a job well done.

Key factors to consider when doling out chores include:

• Assigning chores that are age-appropriate for the child; be sure to give each child chores they are capable of completing on their own.

• Patience – remember your child might be learning something new, so keep expectations realistic.

• Remember to praise your child for a job well done – even though you might have done it differently or better!

• Try to allow each child to choose the cores he/she would like to do. This encourages cooperation and pride in performing well.

• Decide on the system of rewards up-front. Will the child be paid for chores or given another type of compensation, such as additional privileges, an outing, a special date with a friend, etc.? How will you deal with uncompleted tasks or tasks done in a haphazard manner?

• Encourage the entire family to participate in chore time at the same time – after school, Saturday mornings, after dinner, etc. so everyone works at the same time.

You might want to make and maintain a “chore” chart. Many are available on the Internet to help you get organized and keep track of your children’s progress.