It’s a frequently debated topic among parents: should allowance be tied to chores? On one hand, parents want children to be contributing members of the family, but on the other hand, it’s an opportunity to teach them about finances.
Some parents have found a happy medium in tying a dollar amount to the tasks that get determined as the “extra” chores, the ones done beyond the basic requirements of cleaning their room, clearing the table, etc. By doing this you’ll begin to show them the relationship between working and earning. You’ll want to follow payday up with a lesson on saving, as well as on spending their funds.
Everyone in the house should have their own responsibilities tailored to their specific ages. Toddlers can be taught to put toys back into a toy chest or bin after use. A child in preschool or kindergarten can tidy up his or her room and bring dirty clothes to the laundry hamper. Older children can add taking out the trash and helping to load the dishwasher to their list. Considering the following benefits it may be time to stop debating and start implementing. Included among the many benefits of assigning chores to children is building a feeling of competence along with a sense of accomplishment.
Helping around the house will show children that there are many aspects of running a household and that it takes everyone doing their part to be successful. Chores can help teach real-world skills, valuable lessons about life and help create helpful habits for life.
Some tips on kids and chores:
- Start when they are young and don’t expect perfection. They will continue to learn and get better.
- Praise during the effort will encourage them to keep up the good work and do their best.
- Be consistent with the results that are expected.
- Be realistic. There is no way children will be sterile, spotless individuals. Being a child comes with its share of messes.
- Limit the time spent worrying about clutter, but rather enjoy the time as a family.