Kids run faster at the mention of chores than your pet dog when you say “bath”.
There should be something like the Olympics for parents who manage to get their kids to complete all their chores given to them.
Forget the kids, many of the adults also don’t look forward to doing chores.
Chores are mundane, monotonous and exceedingly banal. But like it or not, they’re an unavoidable part of your life.
Irrespective of how boring they are, doing chores builds character and teaches a few essential life skills.
So, looks like a good idea to get the children used to doing it at the earliest rather than learning to do it later (and complaining about it every time they call home!).
What doing chores teaches the children
- Responsibility
Yes, it’s their responsibility to complete the job given to them. They learn about ownership and accountability.
2. Work ethic
It lays the foundation for well-defined and strong work ethic. They develop discipline by consistently completing their task.
3. Time management
The chore has to be done at the particular time for it to be useful. Balancing school, activities and chores teaches them about managing their time properly.
4. Respect
They discover respect – respect for space, things and, of course, self. They learn to respect their surroundings, belongings and the effort that goes into managing the house.
5. Cleanliness and get organised
It makes them aware about the need for cleanliness and keeping things organised, be it their cupboards or daily schedule.
6. Preparing for adulthood
Doing chores when at home, they learn the essential life skills they’ll need once they step out and are on their own.
How chores build character
- Self esteem
It gives them a sense of achievement on completing their chores for the day. It builds their confidence and competence.
2. Perseverance
Not all days are same. Even on the days they don’t want to do it, they’ve no choice but to do it. Learning to follow through builds their perseverance and resilience.
3. Teamwork
For the house to run smoothly, each member of the family needs to do their bit. By doing chores, they feel involved, like they’re contributing to the household.
This also builds their collaborative and communication skills.
4. Problem solving
Getting it done faster and more efficiently leads to cultivating their creative and problem solving skills. It also teaches them about adaptability.
Final thoughts
You’ve to begin looking at doing chores differently if you want your children to do it without the usual reminders and requests.
Get creative and innovative by creating reward systems (small rewards or payments for chores completed) or family time when everyone’s involved in doing their assigned task.
Make it a fun time with favourite music playing or having challenges.
Instead of doing chores looking dreary or ominous, change the perspective to a more pleasant learning experience.
This is the most effective way to ensure they grow into responsible, capable and well-rounded adults.
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