Giving kids a sense of responsibility will pay off later on by laying the foundation for future good habits. Here are ways to teach kids to do chores to make them feel that their contribution is valued.
1. Pick tasks that are simple and age-appropriate
Since kids do not have the cognitive ability to break down large tasks into components, keep tasks simple and straightforward. Chores should not be complicated that they would need to require a lengthy explanation on how to do them.
For example, instead of telling him to clean his room, tell him to put his clothes in the laundry basket or place all the utensils on the table in the proper place before dinner. It would also help to show them how to do it yourself, according to Baby Center.
2. Instill a routine
Doing chores at the same time every day can get kids into a routine. Kids can put away all their toys before going to bed or help you do laundry every Saturday. Sticking to a routine can help turn tasks into a habit instead of a chore.
3. Stay away from nagging
Nagging almost never works especially with children. Unfortunately, parents often result to nagging because they do not have any other option to remind their children to put in the work.
Instead of nagging, try a gentle remind that will encourage them to fulfill their responsibilities. Try to motivate them on what needs to be done so they can continue onto what they really wanted to do in the first place, Empowering Parents reported.
4. Cut him some slack
Children will not perform every chore willingly every time as they would definitely rather play outside than clean the dishes. Part of teaching kids to do chores is allowing them to develop a sense of initiative so cutting them some slack once in awhile may be acceptable.
5. Avoid turning chores into a punishment
Chores should not be presented as a punishment for doing something wrong, as this will allow them to associate chores to a bad consequence. The only time chores are allowed to be a punishment is when a child needs to right a wrong that they did to another sibling.
