How to Motivate Children to do Chores

Some children take on chores eagerly because they want to feel like they're contributing to their household, and other children do not. Motivating children to do chores is important to give them a small glimpse into what their future responsibilities as adults will be. Here's how to motivate your kids.

Instructions

1. Establish good role models within the family. Children watch their parents closely, so parents must set an example and take their chores seriously. This motivates children to do their chores, too.

2. Decide on the type of chores you want your children to do. For younger children, assign simple tasks such as picking up their toys. As the children get older, increase their responsibilities. Start chores when children are young so chores become a part of daily life. The younger children are when they are first assigned chores, the more motivated they will be to do them as they get older.

3. Discuss with your children the importance of doing chores and how they help the whole family. Understanding the importance of chores helps to motivate children to do them.

4. Make a chart that lists specific daily chores for each child in the family. When children finish specific chores, they can mark them off on the list. Parents can motivate children by giving a special prize when children finish chores on the list. A chore chart also gives the children a sense of pride for completing all of their chores.

5. Decide whether to give your children an allowance for doing chores or to keep the two areas separate. Giving allowance for extra chores can work, but the real motivator for doing chores should be the feeling of accomplishment when they are completed.