How to get your kids to help with the chores.

Do you spend more time trying to get your kids to complete a chore then it would take you to do it yourself? One day I thought, why do we always give our kids the same old chores like empty the garbage, make your bed, etc. We are not really teaching them about everyting else that needs to be done such as washing and ironing. Hence I developed this "card system" and it works like a dream, but the key is your participation. I used this system for several years, not only did we get everyting done in record time, but it gave me the opportunity to teach my boys the correct way of completing their chores. They thought it was great on the days they had to clean the bathroom, but I had to clean the dog pen.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 3 x 5 index cards
• pen or pencil
• file box

1. Make a list of every chore that needs to be done around the house daily. (example: make beds). Make a list of chore that needs to be done weekly. example: take out garbage). Make a list of anything that need to be done occasionally. example: clean out garage)

2. Assign a point value form 1 to 5 to each item on your list. The more difficult and time consuming the chore, the higher the point value.

3. Transfer each item on your list to a 3 x 5 index card, include the point value for the chore along with steps for completion and expected result. Separate according to daily, weekly and occasional chores and place in the file box.

4. Determine how you want to assign rewards for the points based on what motivates your kids best. For example if it is money, then assign a cash value to each point. Other possible motivations could be a trip to the zoo, a friend spending the night, a new game or toy, etc.

5. Either use a monthly calendar you already have with space to record the kids names and points for each day or go to www.printablecalendars.com and print one you like.

6. Gather the kids around the table and explain the "Card System" as well as the point rewards. Shuffle the Daily Chore index cards and deal, don't forget to deal yourself in, and Dad too, if he is available, as this is the most important step. Weekly and Occasional tasks can be assigned as appropriate.

Tips & Warnings

• At the start of the "Card System" complete your assigned chores, then work with your kids so they learn how to complete their chores correctly.
• Stress the importance of doing a good job today, because tomorrow someone else will be dealt that chore.
• My boys learned how to wash, iron, fold clothes, dust, vacuum, clean the bathrooms, make the beds, change the sheets, and a host of other routine chores.
• This works best only when you participate, and it becomes a fun learning experience. No yelling or nagging, as everyone knows what needs to be done for the day and the sooner its done the more time we have for other activities.
• Avoid assigning any chores that may be dangerous.
• Make sure all chores are age appropriate.