How to Encourage Kids to do Chores
Convincing children to take on household chores can seem an impossible task. However, helping out around the house not only takes pressure off over-burdened parents but helps to teach children valuable lessons in responsibility that can improve all aspects of their young lives. There are a few simple measures available to parents which can help encourage children to do their fair share without too much resistance.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Start early dealing out responsibility with children. If very young children are used to helping parents with household chores, it's easier to slowly increase the amount and intensity as they grow up. At first, of course, it will be little more than a game for the children, but it will make chores seem a natural part of family life. Starting young is much easier than convincing older children to suddenly take up household chores.
-
2
Pay pocket-money according to how well older children accomplish their chores. An allowance is an excellent way for adults to coerce their children into doing tasks they might not otherwise want to do. In addition, if one child obstinately refuses then simply pay siblings to take up the extra chores themselves. For instance, if there are expensive concert tickets, a new computer or some other expensive item to save up for, an allowance can provide that extra incentive.
-
-
3
Do the chores as a family. Avoid frustrating your children by resting or reading a book while they're slaving away vacuuming the hall. Not only does communal chore work seem less unfair to the children but it can become a nice family activity in its own right. The last things parents want is to turn helping out around the house into a lonely, unhappy experience for their children.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Avoid using chores as a punishment. Chores should be presented as a natural part of family life rather than as only a punitive measure.
References
- Photo Credit David Sacks/Lifesize/Getty Images
