The Importance of Chores

How do we get our kids to pick up their rooms without a battle? Love and Logic suggests using the most powerful way of teaching our children -Joyful Modeling! The best part is you don't even have to bribe or pay your child to get them to contribute to family life! It is one of the best ways for your child to gain self-esteem and confidence by feeling like an important and relevant part of the family unit.

How do we use joyful modeling to up the odds that our children will help out?

*Talk out loud while you do chores!
*Say "why" you are doing it!

For example: "I am going to unload the dishwasher. I don't always love doing it, but it feels good to know that I helped to get the dishes clean so we can eat a nice meal together."

*Sing or listen to music while you work

*Give Choices on when, what, or how chores will be completed.
*Expect your child to contribute!
If they choose not to help with the chores, do it yourself or pay someone else to do it for them. Have the child pay you with other chores, allowance, or toys.
*Have an Energy Drain!
Let your child know that you won't be able to take them to a playdate, turn on a favorite show, or do a puzzle with them until the chores are completed.

Join me for an upcoming Love and Logic class for more information on age appropriate chores and fun tips for encouraging your child to be a contributing member of your family!

Thanks for reading!