Chores can help children learn responsibility. However, establishing an effective chore system requires some effort from parents. We put together a list of pitfalls for parents to avoid when it comes to chores.
Encourage through praise. Don’t wait until your child is finished with a chore to praise him or her for a job well done. Encourage your child throughout the process and congratulate progress! Praise is often a better motivator than money.
Progress over perfection. Your child is still learning what “clean” really means, so don’t be hard on him or her when there are still streaks on the window and dust in the corners. And by no means, don’t jump in and o the chore instead of your child. That undermines the whole point of chores.
Make chores fun. Turn on some music or make a game out of it! Laugh and dance as you put away toys, sort dirty laundry and load the dishwasher. Doing so teaches children that responsibility can fun.
Start early. Some parents think their children are too young for chores. However, there are plenty of age-appropriate tasks that the youngest can do. You can get assistance in picking up toys, carrying small and safe items. Getting students familiar with words that require their support will forge the way in fostering an environment of responsibility.
Be consistent. Establishing a chore system for children can feel like a chore for adults. As a parent or guardian, remind yourself to remind your child about chores. Setting clear expectations and following through communicates to your child that chores are important. If chores are important to you, they will become important to your child.
At Kids ‘R’ Kids, we make sure children are cared for and nurtured in an age-appropriate environment that fosters the process of learning responsibility. We offer programs for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school-age children that make even chores a fun classroom activity.