How many times have you heard these refrains or something similar when you ask or tell your children to do a chore around the house? Chances are it has been often. Children can be pros at procrastination, excuses, resistance and refusal when it comes to chores, causing much concern among parents and conflict between children and their parents.
Insisting that chores be completed can feel like a never-ending battle. Because it can feel like you are constantly reminding, nagging, or imposing consequences just to get your children to follow through, you may decide to let chores slide. It becomes easier in the short run to do the jobs yourself.
Even though it is more difficult at the time to persist in having children do chores, research indicates that those children who do have a set of chores have higher self-esteem, are more responsible, and are better able to deal with frustration and delay gratification, all of which contribute to greater success in school.
By completing household tasks, they may not always be the star student or athlete, but they will know that they can contribute to the family, begin to take care of themselves, and learn skills that they will need as an adult.
Children may not thank you in the short term for giving them chores. This is a case where the goal is not necessarily to make your children happy; rather it is to teach them life skills and a sense of responsibility that will last a lifetime.
The 10 Things That Only Your Childhood Best Friend Understands
75 Years And Still Golden!