Many parents, just like you, have got the same question on their minds; how do I get the kids to help out around the house? And it's not only figuring out how to get them to help, but also how to get them to help without nagging, arguing and/or getting frustrated over the situation.
The goods news is that lots of kids, especially the younger ones, want to help their parents get things done.
That's because little kids have a tendency to copy their parent's behavior.
So if they see you performing certain tasks that they feel they can help with, the motivation to be like mom and dad is what encourages them to ask if they can do what you're doing.
But when you get into the teen or pre-teen years, that's usually when the trouble really seems to set in.
Because kids in those age groups have got plenty of other stuff they'd rather be doing than dusting and vacuuming, even if it does mean they're going to get an allowance for it at the end the week.
So what do you do? Talk it Out Well, if you are one of the many families that's having issues with getting your kids to help out around the house, try talking to them first.
Because no matter what age your kids are, communicating with them, especially about responsibility, is very important.
Let your kids know that you need to sit down for a couple of minutes and discuss this issue.
Don't point fingers and don't attack them.
Calmly explain to them that being part of a family includes helping each other and that you need help, especially around the house.
Let them know that they too, will reach a point one day in their own lives when they're on their own, when they'll realize how valuable receiving a little extra help from someone else can be.
Also be sure to tell them that even though they are expected to keep up their responsibilities around the house anyway without you having to keep on them about it, that you also very much appreciate their efforts.
And let them know that nagging them is just as tiresome for you as it is for them.
So if everyone simply keeps up their end of the bargain, the household tasks will be taken care of with minimal effort and frustration for all involved.
Chore Charts and Reward Charts Some experts tell us that kids shouldn't be rewarded for doing their chores.
But let's face it, when you work, you expect to be compensated right? Well, so do our kids.
And they should be, in specific instances.
Keeping their rooms clean isn't really, technically a 'chore' although it seems like that to them.
It's really more a matter of good hygiene so you might need to explain that to them.
But setting up a chart that displays what 'extra' household tasks you want them to complete is not only one good way to get them to help out, but it can also serve a great motivational tool as well.
And make them part of the process.
Set up the chore chart so that they can check off each task as they complete it.
This will not only give them a sense of satisfaction, but one of pride as well.
And then compensate them at the end of each week with an appropriate allowance.
This will also begin to instill a good work ethic in them that will greatly benefit them in the future.