WORK - CHORES Although it was “work,” my parents never referred to it as such. Growing up on a small farm in a rural community provided my brother and sisters with what seemed to be a lifetime of duties and expectations. Grumbling was not an option and/or cheating on those chores had no strings attached. Our parents did not bait us in order for us take them serious, and we were not paid an allowance. We simply contributed our fair share in taking care of the needs within our family. Chores were work, and in “hind sight” work was good. Our parents taught us well. They both worked hard, and as children we took notice of that. One of the things that we often hear among parents is that children don’t know anything about responsibility. But I have come to see that responsibility, learning how to work, and being dependable are not inherent or innate characteristics. We must, indeed, learn these important values. The very best way to teach them is through example, working together, demonstrating those work habits, and reinforcing them in our children. I know, I am going to hear that not all kids are raised on small farms. That is sooo very true. If you have a pet, you have chores of feeding, grooming, and cleaning the backyard. And I will also hear that things are different today. You may be right there too. But parents who care about their children can do so without providing them with the gadgets, electronics and cell phones to occupy their time. . . How about raking your elderly neighbor’s yard for free, shoveling snow from the sidewalks, or assisting a neighbor with their snow filled driveway is another chore a child could do. Volunteering and do this as a family but doing it frequently will also teach the importance work. WARNING: School is work, do not pay for the grades you desire. Those are expectations. Chores in the home should be expectations without allowances, or promises attached. Toddlers can be expected to clean-up after themselves, and as a child grows their duties and expectations in the home grow. When kids (teens as well) are provided a stake in the care and environment in the home, that care translates into understanding and accepting responsibility.
Posted on: Fri, 15 Nov 2013 12:18:12 +0000
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