Being a parent is one of the most challenging jobs in the world. As parents, we are responsible for providing wisdom, guidance, and physical and emotional care to our children. We make sure that they are physically and emotionally healthy. We are also responsible for teaching our children the necessary skills to help them become responsible and dependable adults. As you probably know, getting your children to help around the house sometimes can becomes a chore in and of itself.

Here are some tips to help you get your children engaged in daily chores:

Fun Time:

If you want your child to engage in cleaning, make cleaning fun. Turn it into a game to get your child to engage. Do not use it as punishment!

Start Small:

It is a process, so start small. Begin with making your child responsible for one chore a day. You do not want to overwhelm your child from the start.

Matching a chore to a child’s skill level:

Whatever the task is, ensure that it matches your child’s skills and attention level.

Here are some examples :

Ages 2-3

● Pick up toys off the floor

● Put books away

● Put dirty clothes in a hamper

Ages 4-5

● Feed the pets

● Set the table

● Fold small towels

Ages 6-7

● Empty Dishwasher

● Empty trash can

● Rake leaves

Ages 8-11

● Wash dishes

● Hang and fold clean clothes

● Put away the groceries

Ages 12-13

● Vacuum

● Clean glass items (e.g., mirrors)

● Change the bed sheets

Importance of Choice:

Offer your child some options. Keep in mind that you do not want to offer too many options. You want your child to engage in the chore and not dread doing it.

Take Time to Explain:

Make sure that the importance of each chore is explained to the child. If your child does not understand why it is important to complete a certain task, they are less likely to do it.

Implement Rewards:

Discuss with your child possible rewards for completing the chores. It is up to you how you want to reward your child. Sometimes, simple praise is enough.

Non-negotiable:

Make sure that your children know that their chores are their responsibility. There is no room for negotiation. Remember, you gave them an option for what they wanted their chore to be.

Be Consistent:

Consistency is the key. As a parent, it is your job to ensure that your child follows through with what they agreed to do. Once again, you are teaching your child essential life skills.

-Written by Agata Kopacz, M.A.