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Women are often responsible for household chores at home. To have daily help, it is essential to teach children to do some of them. According to Dr. Shelly Flais, a pediatrician and member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, chores should be adapted to the child’s age.
We regularly discuss the distribution of household tasks between men and women, within the couple. This time, it’s about the involvement of children.
Doing household chores gives the child responsibility
Children, from a very young age, are often eager to help. According to Dr. Shelly Flais, pediatrician member of the American Academy of Pediatrics interviewed by Medicalxpress, it is important to engage them from an early age, with simple household chores. “It teaches them life skills and how to cooperate in a group.” assures the health professional. This could, for example, be putting away your toys, bringing you this or that object, helping you carry out a task, such as cleaning the windows or emptying a washing machine, for example.
Don’t expect a perfect result
The expert recalls that carrying out this type of task also brings a plus to the child’s self-esteem. On the other hand, there is no point hoping for a perfect result: it is by starting several times that an acceptable result will be possible.
But even if it doesn’t live up to your expectations, the pediatrician reminds us of the importance of praising your children’s efforts, every time. “Small accomplishments lead to bigger ones. Children can take on more responsibilities as they grow up.” she rightly estimates.
Household chores should be age-appropriate
In addition to helping you, giving responsibility for tidying up and maintaining a defined space will instill in your children the notion of teamwork and mutual aid within the family, two values that they will retain. All their life.
As they grow, the tasks assigned to them will become more and more elaborate: children can make their bed, dust and tidy their room, for example. Teenagers can vacuum, mop the floor, do the dishes, or hang out a machine. They can also help prepare meals or go shopping with their parents.
Maintain these good habits, even for older teenagers
Finally, the pediatrician addresses parents who would tend to excuse their children for not participating in these household chores. “Wondering if your teen can handle some of the household chores that need to be done? Remember, if your teen can use a smartphone, they can understand how to use a washing machine, oven and dishwasher.”.
And for those who feel that their older teenager is too “tired” because of their studies, their sporting activities and sometimes the odd job they do on the side to make a little pocket money, Dr. Flais responds with humor: “VSThis is no reason to stop contributing to household chores. Can you imagine that as parents we stop taking care of the house because we have to go to work?”
Slide: Sharing household chores: 10 tips to motivate the whole family