How to improve a child’s attitude through teaching chores

I’ve been sick a lot. And for a long time, I’ve prayed for something to do so that I can make a difference in someone’s life. I used to work full time, and often dreamed of time off. You don’t realize how it actually feels to be “off work” with no end in sight, until you actually have to do it. In a word, it makes me grumpy. What I’m trying to share is a way for anyone to help any child out of the grumpies. Now, I’m sure you know that I don’t mean when they are hungry, tired, or sick. Those are, of course, different needs. I’m talking about when you might hear “I’m bored”. Maybe you just see it in the aimless wandering around the house. Nothing really sounds fun or good to do. My kids always had the option to do a chore I picked for them, or come up with their own industriousness. Guess which one always won out?

I think that as people in general, we need to feel like we are contributing. A contribution in effort towards the household, allows for an improvement in self worth. For example, some sort of cleaning works well. Everyone can see the difference in how something looks once it’s been cleaned up or out. I really noticed this fact for myself today. It’s gloomy and cold outside. It takes away all my motivation. A little bit of sunshine goes a long way for me. So, I talked myself into touch up painting the hallway. I didn’t want to do it. But, boy does it feel great now when I see it all fresh and clean. This blog has been awesome for me. There are days when I don’t feel well, and have to rest a lot. By doing this, I feel like I have a chance to help someone out. Much better than sitting around feeling like you aren’t accomplishing anything.

Along with this, I would encourage you to make sure and thank the child for their effort. This adds positivity to the whole experience. Kids feel great when they help out. Even the little ones like it. When my oldest granddaughter was about 1 1/2, she could put laundry in the dryer. She loved it. As kids get older, having a regular job or two that’s their responsibility helps. You will have to decide on your reward system. Some people believe chores are a contribution for being part of the family. Others give an allowance or points towards a special treat. Do what works for you.

You might ask, “what do I do if I can’t get the child to do a chore?”. I’m definitely no expert. My suggestion is to have them pick something out. There were times I had to take a privilege away if things weren’t done. Again, that is a personal choice. It’s what worked for me, but every household is different.

So, what do you think? If you like something here, comment, share or follow. If you don’t agree, I would still like to hear your thoughts , just keep it to constructive criticism please. Just a little disclaimer, I’m not a psychology expert, just old enough to have some experience! 🙂

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• My kids with their hardworking babysitter. She did a ton of mothering!

Proverbs 22:6

Start children off in the way they should go, and when they are old they will not turn from it

Author: howdoesamomknow

As the title says, above all, I’m a mom. There are many roles that I fill, but mom describes me best. I’m a wife, mother, sister, daughter, nurse, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, mother in law, dog lover, patient, friend, care giver, teacher, leader, crafter, consumer, writer. I could go on, but I’m sure you get the idea. We all have so many roles. I feel I have a lot to share, and decided a blog would be a great way to do it. I live in a rural area, so this is the best way to connect with others. View all posts by howdoesamomknow