How to Assign Chores to Teens

Teens may enjoy washing the car as part of their chores

You can assign chores to teens of any age. They can do them for money or as part of earning their keep for living at home. Depending upon age and schedule, teens can do a variety of chores either on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. It's up to you as a parent or group home leader to assign chores to teens and see them through to completion. Following are some ways you can do that successfully.

Things You'll Need

• Chart
• Computer
• Internet
• Pen
• Paper
• Dry Erase Board

Instructions

1. Determine which chores need to be done and when. Make a list either on the computer or with a pen and paper. You can also fill in a chore chart and place it on the fridge or in plain view of the entire family when it is time. Use a dry erase board and marker if you feel you will make changes.

2. Sit down and talk to the teen about what needs to be done. See if they will be cooperative in picking out chores that they would rather do. If you have more than one teen, have all of them sit down with you together and pick which ones they would like to do. If they will not decide, you must decide for them. Don't forget to tell them chores may be assigned on an "as needed" basis for special projects such as painting, leaf raking, yard work and emergency projects.

3. Have a 24-36 hour grace period for chores that are not time sensitive (feeding animals would not qualify).Impose a built-in penalty for neglected chores, such as doing an extra chore, forfeiting free time, privileges or money.

4. Decide if you will pay the teen for the chores you assign and how much. You may want to offer "bonus" chores as an added incentive for motivated teens who would like to earn extra money. You may be surprised to learn what your teen will do for money.

5. Recognize when teens do chores without being asked and offer recognition and incentives for this behavior. This will go a long way towards obtaining their cooperation in the future.

6. Have your teen(s) help with you home business and pay them a "wage" for doing so. This will lighten your load of "busy work" so you can get on to running your business. They can stuff envelopes, make phone calls, answer the phone, do data entry, clean the office or organize files.

Tips & Warnings

• Enlist your teen's cooperation for best results.

• Never allow a teen to operate heavy or dangerous tools or machinery.

Resources

• Switch to cheap Internet