We’re back in a routine of things over here and as I get older, I find myself enjoying our down time more and more.
January is a month of organization, fresh starts, routine and resolutions. As I was thinking about the upcoming new year, one thing that came to mind was how to involve our kids in the day-to-day tasks in our home.
I remember doing chores when I was younger and not loving them. Every Saturday it was my responsibility to clean the living room. We each had a day to do the dishes, clear the table, and as I got older, to make a meal. I remember the first meal I had to make. I did not like cooking but my dad was there to help me. To this day, he’ll take credit for teaching me how to cook.
That said, I think it’s very important to give kids opportunities to be contributing members of the family. They may not like it but one day, they’ll be on their own and they’ll have to do it. It’s always a great time to teach responsibility.
Before I had kids, I came across a chart that included age-appropriate chores for kids. I loved the chart at the time but now, having kids, there are some things I would change a bit. I’ve created my own chart that you can use as a starting point with your kids. Some of the things that Spencer currently does include: helping to clean the car, load the washer and dryer, to vacuum; taking trash to the garbage can, taking his dishes to the counter after a meal, putting dirty clothes in the hamper and helping to bake. He also is expected to clean up his books and toys. At this point, he does all of this with a willing heart.
This is definitely not an exhaustive list. I would love to hear some of the chores that your little ones do!
