Taking the Chore Out of Chores (It’s Possible, I Promise!)

If you’re like most American adults, you were expected to do household chores after school, or on the weekend. Some look back on those duties as a drag, but more than 80 percent of you grew up doing them—and I’d like to think that more than 80 percent turned out more than okay! That’s why I was alarmed to read that only 28 percent of parents today are asking their kids to pitch in at home—and the 72 percent who don’t often claim that their kids either refuse to do chores or will only do them for money. Aye, aye, aye!

I’m a big fan of chores for a few reasons. Developmental psychologists have shown that doing chores as a child can actually help with work ethic and general life skills later in life. I also love seeing the look of pride and accomplishment on my little ones’ faces when they’ve helped put away groceries or picked up after playtime (I’m talking age-appropriate stuff, people! Don’t ask your six year old to mow the lawn, for goodness’ sake!). Plus, let’s face it, family life gets a whole lot easier when everybody does their part to keep things in order.

So how can you take the chore out of chores and prevent a fight when it comes to asking your kiddos to help out around the house? I think the simplest thing is by starting including your children in household chores from a very young age, and by making it fun, and making sure that it doesn’t take too much time. Help your daughter learn to put her dollies away so they can “sleep” in the toy box, or make a game out of sorting the recycling with your older kids. Once you get kids into helping out, they can see how their contributions help the family overall, which will make them feel proud and excited to pitch in next time. The key is to not push them too far, and to start small. And remember, this isn’t about making your kids “work,” it’s about teaching them important skills and instilling in them a sense of confidence that will last a lifetime!