Teaching Responsibility with Chores for Children

As parents, it is always exciting when children become old enough to pitch in and help out around the house. Chores are also a great way to teach children responsibility, which is an important lesson and valuable life skill. At home, children are always watching the actions of others—particularly their parents. By setting examples early on, you can help establish a foundation for responsible behavior for the rest of their lives. 

“When children develop an understanding of ‘responsibility’ as a character trait that friends and family value, it can make a positive difference in their lives,” said Dr. Gloria Julius, vice president of education for Primrose Schools.  “They take ownership, develop a strong work-ethic and enjoy a sense of gratification that comes from living up to one’s own expectations.   We want children to learn that they positively impact the world around them with their responsible acts. Even young children can learn to become active participants at home.”

Teaching responsibility through household chores is the perfect start to empowering young children to become responsible people. Dr. Julius offers five tips to get parents started:

Involve the family. Approach chores as a family team, and you may be pleased to find that your little ones want to get involved! Include your child in conversations about setting goals, teamwork, and what it means to be a part of a family – even little ones enjoy having a say.

Focus on interests. If your child shows interest in the kitchen, enlist his help with making dinner or setting the table. Start with basic, simple tasks, like folding the napkins in half or adding ingredients to a big bowl of salad. By incorporating their interests, you can make helping fun.

Talk it through. Take baby steps when first introducing chores to younger children. Start by teaching a specific task in steps. Be careful not to overwhelm young children with too much information.

Chose age-appropriate tasks. Take your child’s age into consideration when enlisting help with household chores. It is not only important to recognize which chores are realistic in regards to their abilities, it is also important not to ask your child to take on too much which can lead to frustration. Avoid redoing the task.  Accept that the child has done it, so he develops a sense of accomplishment and confidence.

Offer specific feedback and appreciation. Acknowledging a job well done will give your little one the needed encouragement and a sense of satisfaction. By recognizing the contribution to the family, you are teaching your child the value of hard work and responsibility.  In the end, he or she will feel helpful and important.

To learn more about Primrose School of Dunwoody, visit our school campus at 5050 Nandina Lane in Dunwoody, www.PrimroseDunwoody.com, or call 770.396.8266.

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