Getting kids to do their chores should not be a daunting task. Here are some tips that might make getting chores done easier and more pleasurable for you.
Have you ever been excited about a new chore system that you set up for your child, only to find it a daunting task to get them done? You are not alone. We, as parents, often start off strong...reminding our kids of their chores, staying on top of them, and then often fizzle out because the whining and complaining outweighs the trouble it takes to get them to do their chores. This is one battle lost. That is the first mistake. Giving into the grumbling just proves to your child that if she keeps it up long enough, you will buckle, and she will win. Remember that persistence is the key here. If you stand your ground, chores will soon become easier and the whimpering will fade away.
Completing chores are important for children because it teaches them that every family member is responsible for the house they live in. It also gets them accustomed to work, which is something they will be doing for the rest of their lives.
Here are some tips to help motivate your child to get their chores done:
Show the proper techniques. When giving a chore to your child, show her the proper way to get it done. Don't expect her to just go and do something, like polish the furniture, when she does not know how it is to be done. Once you have shown her how to do the task, and she doesn't do it right, make her do it again until it is done properly.
Chore chart rules. If you plan on using a chore chart, which is highly recommended, make sure it is easily accessible to your child. Let her put on her own stickers to show that the work has been done. If you plan on giving an incentive or allowance, make sure you follow through on this. This will keep your child motivated.
No chore chart. Some families prefer not to give rewards or allowance for chores. This is okay, but you should find some way to let your child know she has done well, or she will lose interest and grumble about the chores.
Assess your goals. If you demand an immaculate house and expect your child to achieve this, you may need to lower your standards just a bit. Making hard demands on your child will cause conflict, and this is something you definitely want to avoid. Just making sure that they do their chores right is success, even if it is not perfect.
Give age-appropriate chores. Your young child will most likely love to please you by cleaning house. Chores make a young child feel independent. Make sure her tasks are suited for her age. Older children (6 years to 12 years) can handle more detailed chores and also more chores in quantity than a 2-year-old.
Start slow with older children. Give your child one chore to complete for the first week, and then add another chore the second week, and possibly add another chore the third week. Let her get accustomed to her chores over time. This will lessen stress and make the chores more doable.
Family Chores. When appropriate, have a chore that the whole family can complete together. You could wash the family cars or clean out the garage. With everyone participating, it makes the task more fun and you, as a parent, are being an example that you are responsible as well.
Happy cleaning!
