Chores – How Do I Get My Kids to Help Out?

Getting the Little Ones to Lend a Hand Around the House!

Some days I look around my house and feel completely overwhelmed by the mess created by my 3 children, the amount of laundry to be done, and the endless list of other chores that always seem to be there. Since they are the creators of much of the mess, I began to think about ways that they are ready to help clean it up.

Different people have different philosophies. Some parents do all of the chores, never asking for any help from their children, or paying them for any chores done. On the other extreme, I remember years ago watching the Oprah show featuring Will Smith and him telling his own children that the house and everything in it was his and that his kids just get to live there. Although I don’t agree with this more extreme philosophy, I do believe that each member of the family must contribute to keeping the household running smoothly simply because they live there – no payment necessary.

By starting early with expecting children to help out, it becomes ingrained in them to clean up after themselves.  Each day after I help my 2 year old dress, he is required to bring his clothes or jammies to the laundry basket.

Make it fun or a challenge. When the entire floor seems to be littered with every toy imaginable, I challenge my kids to a 20 toy (or whatever number works for you) clean up. We time it and see how fast they can accomplish it. It sounds like a lot of toys, but it’s amazing how many they are able to find some days! When they dump out the entire box of blocks, we make it a game of basketball to toss them back into the storage bin.

Add more responsibility as they get older. I have a friend with children older than mine and each morning they have to empty the dishwasher before they get on the school bus. I always thought that this was such a great way to start the day and to have that chore done. Demonstrate how you expect something to be done and don’t expect perfection at first. Applaud your child’s effort as he learns to do a new job.

Finally, after choosing a reasonable number of chores for your child, make getting them done non-negotiable. They must complete their chores (and complete them well) before their leisurely activities (TV, video games, etc). Remind your kids that part of being part of your family is helping to keep your house neat and tidy.
 
 
Meet The Bella Behind the Blog: Kristen Farley is a mother of three and a domestic goddess. She is a former teacher who enjoys spending lots of time with her kids, healthy eating, volunteering at school, and mommy blogging for the masses.

Be on the lookout for more of Kristen’s expert advice and brillent tips!