I am thrilled to be back participating in another segment of the Real Talk, Real Mom series and today, our topic focuses on chores and responsibility. How soon do you start to give your children chores? In my opinion, it’s never too soon to start as long as your child is at an age where he/she comprehends simple instructions and can follow directions. Children who are given chores/responsibility tend to be more independent, responsible and go on to become self sufficient adults in the world.
Since they were much younger(about age 3), I started encouraging my boys to complete simple chores like picking up after themselves and replacing their toys in their bins after use in the playroom. There was no reward for completing the tasks, except the knowledge that they were helping their Mama to keep the house nice and tidy. I do praise them though when they complete their chores so they know that I appreciate what they are doing. I also find that singing while completing these tasks/chores make the activity fun.
As they’ve grown older, more chores have been added like self care ones; brushing their teeth, preparing for school, folding clothes, making the bed, taking care of the pets, etc.
I once printed these labels and placed them on my older son’s dresser when he was learning how to put away his clothes and they helped tremendously to help him to place his clothes in the correct drawer.
Nowadays, he doesn’t need the labels and knows exactly where the different items of clothing go.
Giving the boys chores not only helps to keep things running smoothly in the household but also gives them a sense of pride to be contributing to the family unit. They are willing to help and in fact sometimes even compete to complete a task:-). xx
Please do check out the other Moms’ thoughts on this topic: The Effortless Chic, Avestyles, HeyMama, The Lifestyled, Design for Mankind
