How to Teach a Child Responsability

As a parent, learning to let go and allow your child to take responsibility can be tough. Not only is it difficult to acknowledge your child is getting older, but sometimes patience wears thin and it’s easier to just do it yourself. Here are some suggestions for how to teach your child responsibility.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Learn to let go. Teaching your child responsibility means letting go of control. They will not handle everything exactly as you would, and that is ok. If they decide to organize their toys the opposite of how you would, allow them the freedom to do it. If you squelch their ambition or desire to be independent, they will in turn give up and assume you will always take over their responsibilities.
2. Assign them chores. As a member of your household, it isn’t unreasonable to expect that your child help in little ways. Insist that your child pick up her toys before bed, or make it his job to dry the dishes after dinner. Teaching them the value of work is important, and you may be surprised at how they leap at the opportunity to help.
3. Make them accountable. If you have given your child responsibility for something, make them accountable for if it is finished or not. Follow through on your actions. If you say that they may not have a snack until they put their clothes away, do not allow them to have a snack until the job is done.
4. Consider getting your child a pet. Children sometimes forget that there is a world outside the realm of their own ego. A pet makes a child consider another living being. They are responsible for feeding, cleaning and loving this creature. If you do decide to buy a pet, pick out an age appropriate pet. Ensure that you are willing to put the time in to take care of this animal.
5. Create a routine. Children do well in routines. If your child knows what is going to happen each day, they will automatically become responsible for getting ready on time and having whatever work they are expected to have done finished.
6. Applaud their efforts. Be positive and constructive. If your child falls short, but you see the effort they are putting in, applaud them. You can gently suggest how to do things differently next time, but always give praise for a job well done.

Tips & Warnings

• Always applaud your child for their efforts.
• Allow your child control. They may not do things like you would, but allow them that freedom.
• Never criticize how your child processes or works on a job. Instead, praise their accomplishments and offer gentle guidance for mistakes they've made.