Chores. This single word is something that most adults are not excited about. You can only imagine how children perceive this activity.
That is why it is essential to teach them while they are young. With proper guidance, children can embrace chores as part of responsible living. Here are some practical strategies to try.
Equip and Orient Well
When one has what they need at their disposal, it is easy to finish things. The proper installation of an excellent water heater will make dishwashing a breeze. Complete garden materials will make raking or cleaning the yard fun. The idea is to provide the children with the correct equipment, so they will not treat chores as a burden. It does not mean that you have to rely on technology. Even manual pieces of equipment, as long as they are complete, will help finish the work.
Also, as a parent, you have to be clear of the results that you expect. Teach them first how they should go about a chore. You can also tell them what you want to see once they finished doing it. This way, they will try to follow a standard. You can eliminate frustrations on both sides.
Avoid Punishments, Operate on Rewards
One of the pitfalls of giving chores to children is by giving it as a punishment. When a child misbehaves, some parents use chores as a form of discipline. In doing so, the child associates chores with something negative. They begin to hate the chore, not in itself but because they attach a negative experience to it.
Instead of doing this, a child should see chores as a happy experience. You may try to have an equivalent allowance or reward for each chore. It could be money, a small token, or an experience that they wish to have. This strategy also shows the value of earning something. If they want to get something, they have to work hard for it.
Show a Good Example
Children are great imitators. They will copy what they see around them, especially with their parents. They should see that their parents like to do things for the household and the family. It is more beneficial when they see their mother and father splitting chores. This practice gives them the concept that chores are not gender-based. It also gives them the idea that something is easier when more family members get involved in tasks.
Empower with Praise and Feedback
An excellent way to encourage children to repeat a task is when they know that they have done well. Thus, be generous with praise if you see that they did their best to do a certain chore. Be specific, whether it be the skill, the timeliness, or the attitude by which they have done the chore.
You must also be objective in giving feedback if you see that they still need to improve. This way, they will get accustomed to a certain standard of accomplishing a chore. Do not mindlessly praise for the sake of making them feel good.
Doing chores is a strong way to prepare children for adult life. Making them love it when they are young will benefit them in the long run.
