Do you want your kids to behave better and be happier? If yes, you should start giving them household tasks early. Research has shown that kids who do chores have better behaviour, academic performance and self-esteem than those who don’t.

This blog post will show how chores can transform your kids’ lives by teaching them valuable skills and habits. In addition, we will share some strategies to help your kids complete their duties without constant reminders or rewards, such as adding some fun, creating a chore chart, and involving them in your tasks.

Why are chores suitable for kids?

Chores are not just a way of keeping your home clean and tidy. They are also a way of helping your kids grow into responsible, respectful and independent adults. Here are some of the benefits of chores for kids:

• Responsibility and accountability. Chores help kids learn to care for their belongings and contribute to the family’s well-being. They also learn to follow instructions, manage their time, and prioritize tasks.

• Respect and empathy. Chores help kids learn to appreciate the efforts of others and cooperate with their siblings and parents. They also learn to respect the environment and avoid waste of resources.

• Independence and confidence. Chores help kids learn to do things independently and solve problems creatively. They also learn to deal with challenges and failures and overcome them with perseverance.

• Self-esteem and satisfaction. Chores help kids learn to take pride in their work and achievements. They also learn to value themselves and their abilities.

How to get kids to do chores?

So, how can you get your kids to do chores without nagging or bribing them? Here are some tips:

• Start early. Chores will become more natural for your kids if you start them early. You can start with simple tasks like picking up toys, wiping the table or feeding the pet when they are toddlers and gradually increase the complexity and frequency of the duties as they grow older.

• Be consistent. Set clear expectations and rules for your kids regarding chores and stick to them. Make sure everyone in the family follows the same rules and does their share of chores. Don’t change the tasks or the rewards randomly, or let your kids skip them without consequences.

• Be positive. Praise your kids for doing their chores well and acknowledge their efforts. Avoid criticizing or scolding them for making mistakes or being slow. Instead, offer constructive feedback and encouragement.

• Be realistic. Don’t expect your kids to do chores perfectly or quickly. Remember that they are still learning and need your guidance and support. Don’t overload them with too many or too tricky responsibilities that they can’t handle. Adjust the chores according to their age, ability and interest.

• Use a chore chart. A chore chart can help your kids keep track of their chores and see their progress. You can use stickers or stars to mark off completed tasks and offer rewards or incentives for reaching specific goals.

• Make it fun. The less you can make chores feel like chores, the more likely your kids are to do them without complaining and have some fun. You can play music, sing songs or make games out of the chores. For example, you can challenge your kids to see who can finish their tasks faster or better.

• Invite them to join you. Instead of sending your kids away to do their chores, invite them to come over and be close to you while you work. This way, they can learn by watching and occasionally pitching in. They will also feel more connected and valued as part of the family.

The Impact of Chores on Kids’ Future

Marty Rossmann, a retired professor from the University of Minnesota, found that kids who began doing chores when they were 3 or 4 years old had better outcomes in their 20s regarding relationships, education and independence than those who didn’t have assignments or started later in their teens. Another survey by Braun Research found that 82% of adults who did chores as children said it taught them lifelong lessons.

By making chores a part of your kids’ daily life, you are making your home cleaner and happier and preparing your kids for a successful future.

Sources –

• https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/parenting-translator/202204/should-you-be-making-your-child-do-chores
• https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/growing-friendships/201303/chores-and-children
• https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/going-beyond-intelligence/201908/children-chores-and-happy-productivity