Chores

Clearing the table, picking up toys and making the bed are simple chores that we can expect a young child to be able to perform. As kids mature, chores can expand to include watching siblings, mowing the lawn or helping with the laundry.  Learning how to get along with others, care for ourselves and pitching in around the house is what family is all about.

Growing up I was always upset by assigning chores based on gender.  I never understood the 'rules' regarding girl or boy specific jobs.  Hopefully gender bias or restrictions are a thing of the past in all areas, not just job roles.  I always envied my brothers the yard work as I reluctantly dusted.  Maybe that's why I detest dusting to this day.

We want to set expectations for each member of the household to participate, help out and contribute.  When I worked with special needs kids, it helped me to understand that everyone regardless of age or ability wants to feel useful and included, even if it takes modification or assistance. Teach kids how do the requested tasks, pair up with a young child to work together (for example cleaning the bathroom) and gradually advance level of tasks, while moving towards independent completion as they mature. 

Believing in kids abilities truly empowers them to reach even higher and work that much harder.  We all want to feel needed, accomplished and that we are contributing to the team.  Besides, parenting is all about preparing our kids to take care of themselves and teaching them how to work well with others.  Household responsibilities build confidence and also translate into effective relationship/ interactions at play, school and work.

Having a clear delineation of the jobs each member of the family is responsible for is as simple as writing up a chores list, that may rotate weekly.  Some families tie chores with an allowance.  We never did because we always viewed pitching in as an expectation of any group living together.  But do whatever feels right for your family.  Sometimes rewarding extra jobs with pay can incentivize hard work and motivate kids.

It seems so basic but learning how to cooperate and collaborate are great skills to embody.  So set up a chores list and get everyone cracking!