Healthy Kids

Successful parenting

Much like homework, adding chores to a child’s life helps teach him how to balance play and work, while also promoting responsibility. Of course, most children prefer to play, and may not be exactly eager to empty the dishwasher or fold laundry. Getting kids to do chores may seem like more trouble than it is worth, but it pays off in the long run.

The chore advantage

Doing individual chores helps build confidence and independence. Chores done as a family promote both family bonding and the importance of contributing. According to sociologists, people who did chores as children are more likely to do community or volunteer work as adults, and they may be more successful partners in domestic relationships.

How to get started

Choose appropriate chores for your child for his maturity level, abilities, and character. Most parents have been in the habit of doing everything for their child for so long, that they underestimate how much he is capable of. Most 7–year-olds can set the table or fold the laundry. An active child who likes to be outdoors may do better raking leaves or washing the car.

Allow for imperfection. Try to ignore your desire to have things done as you would do them. At least in the beginning, accept that getting the work done is for the benefit of your child, even if he does not do it perfectly.

Involve your child in the choice of chores. Give him a list of the tasks that need to be done. Explain that some of the chores are mandatory (making his bed, picking up his clothes), while he can choose from the list of others.

Set clear expectations. Agree on how often and when chores need to be completed. Create a chore chart to track when chores do or do not get done.

Take time to demonstrate and teach your child what a chore involves. If he resists, do the chore with him at first. Supervise once or twice before having him do it on his own, and continue to provide positive feedback and reinforcement.

Create the right balance. Too many chores can make your child feel overloaded and frustrated. Make sure he has some time each day to play and have fun. When you can, assign fun chores or look for ways to make the regular ones more enjoyable.

Offer rewards when chores are completed well and on time. These could be treats or privileges.

Consider these options for your chore list:

• Feed pets.
• Walk the dog.
• Take out the trash.
• Fold and put away laundry.
• Load or empty the dishwasher.
• Set the table for meals.
• Do yard work.
• Wash the car.