Systems for Kids
So, let's start by discussing what age is appropriate for kids to start doing chores?
Well, it depends on the child's age and their developmental level. For example, a two-year-old can start by picking up their toys, while a six-year-old can help with more complex tasks, like sweeping the floor or washing dishes. It's important to start with small tasks and gradually increase the difficulty as the child gets older and more skilled.
Why is it important for kids to learn to do chores?
There are many benefits to teaching children to do chores. Firstly, it helps them develop a sense of responsibility and independence. They learn that they are part of a family and have a role to play in maintaining the household. Secondly, doing chores helps develop important life skills such as time management, organization, and problem-solving. Lastly, children who do chores tend to have a greater sense of self-worth and are more likely to contribute to their communities as they grow older. Of course, every child is different, so the chores they're capable of and interested in doing may vary based on their individual abilities and interests. It's important to also take into account safety and responsibility when assigning chores to children, and to provide adequate supervision and support as needed.
We take the “I do, We do, You do” approach with our kids. I will do the task, then the next time, we’ll do it together, and last they will do the task on their own. We’re always there for support and guidance in case they need help. Our kids thrive when they’re working alongside us. They’re seeing us work together as a team to accomplish our goals and it’s so rewarding to see them become more and more independent.
Now, some parents might argue that their kids are too young or too busy with school and other activities to do chores. Not all but some. And that can definitely be understandable.
I would say that chores don't have to be time-consuming or difficult. Even simple tasks like making their bed or putting away their toys can teach valuable life skills. Additionally, doing chores can be a great way for children to take a break from their schoolwork or other activities and can provide a sense of accomplishment that they might not get from other pursuits. For our kids, it is part of their homework, to do a daily chore at home! Incredible!
We also need to talk about our hearts.
We cannot live in the pursuit of perfection. It’s just not gonna happen. A lot of my hang ups with getting the kids involved with chores was actually my perfectionism getting in the way. I was absolutely sure that my kids were never going to be able to clean the way I do and that’s the truth. They’re not. I have to let go of my own expectations, striving, and perfectionism in order to be able to teach my kids how to do chores. That’s my heart issue. Is it going to take longer if I let them help, vs if I just do it myself? Yes. Yes it will. I have to have that mindset going into it. But it’s an opportunity for me to be on their level and see them achieve something. My pursuit of perfection cannot get in the way of teaching my kids. I have to say that this is something that I’m working on. Letting go of the weight of carrying the home chores on my shoulders. It’s good to work together as a team. It’s good to feel like we’re accomplishing something together.
What are my tips for parents who want to start teaching their kids to do chores?
First and foremost, it's important to set clear expectations and guidelines for what chores need to be done, and how they should be done. Parents can create a chore chart or schedule to help keep track of who is responsible for which task. Additionally, it's important to give positive feedback and praise when the child does a good job, which can help build their confidence and motivation.
If you’re looking for a chore chart that helps your kids work alongside you to create a peaceful home, you can head to chelseaumberger.com/shop and download the full checklist for $7! I put mine in a plastic sleeve so the kids can use dry erase markers to check them off and then reset them at the end of the day!
