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Now that you’ve established an allowance for your little darling, you may consider developing a list of chores for your child.
Experts differ on whether an allowance should be given as a reward for chores or if an allowance is a separate thing because chores are just part of the responsibility of being in a family. Whichever way your philosophy falls, now is a good time to consider drawing up a list of chores for your child, if only to start teaching the idea of shared responsibility. You might find yourself re-doing some work and spending more time than you’re supposed to be saving by “out-sourcing” your work to your child.
Many experts say that chores are good for kids for several reasons:
- Chores teach independence.
- Chores build self-esteem by teaching kids the value of helping.
- Chores teach kids that sometimes you have do things you don’t want to do.
Here are some things that might go on that chore list:
- Making their beds
- Helping empty the dishwasher
- Folding towels
- Helping wash the car
- Helping wash patio furniture
- Setting or clearing the table
- Simple dusting
- Retrieving the mail
- Helping carry and put away groceries
- Helping rake the yard
- Watering plants
- Sorting socks
- Emptying wastebaskets
- Feeding dog, cat, or fish
- Sweeping the kitchen or porch
- Practicing piano or other musical instrument
Make sure you monitor how great your child’s workload is. Don’t pile on too much extra work if he or she is already over-scheduled on activities.
GreatDad is partnering with ActiveAllowance.com to provide free chore charts for GreatDad readers.