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Step 1
Give children household chores. When kids do chores, it teaches them how to assume responsibility and gives them the opportunity to take pride in the things that they do. Even a child as young as two can learn to be responsible for things such as picking up her toys or carrying a handful of clothes to the laundry room.
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Step 2
Encourage children to honor their commitments. When parents allow children to weasel out of commitments, it becomes a nasty pattern that spills over into adulthood and affects every aspect of their lives—including their ability to hold down a job.
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Step 3
Hold children accountable for their actions. You're not doing your child any favors by making excuses or allowing him to play the "blame game" whenever he fails to do things, such as turn in his homework. One day your child will grow up and realize that blaming others for his shortcomings won't fly. When you don't hold your child accountable, you weaken his character and diminish his ability to function without you.
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Step 4
Let your child help with pet duty. Children as young as two can assist you with giving household pets fresh food and water. As your child matures you can gradually increase her pet care responsibilities.
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Step 5
Be a role model. Your behavior will set the standards for the level of responsibility your child assumes. Live your life responsibly and your children will too.
