There’s no doubt that downloading videos to an iPod or text messaging requires more technical skill than loading a dishwasher. But kids who manage technology with ease struggle when asked to run a home appliance.Clearly, they’re capable, but we often don’t do enough to engage their help. It’s sometimes easier to quickly load the dishwasher yourself than to teach your child how to do it. But with some training and reinforcement, you can not only enlist helpers, but reduce your own energy deficit in an effective parenting way.
What can we do to get kids to help?
Set up your kitchen for success. Think about putting plastic cups in low cabinets, so your kids can get their own drink at a young age. Put safe utensils & paper plates within arms’ reach; keep sharp knives on higher shelves.
Add some fun. Play music after dinner while everyone helps with clean-up. Set a timer in the morning, and reward chore completion before school with a special snack in the backpack.
Say “thank you” on occasion. I’m not saying you should be going overboard every time your kid does something to help out. A family needs teamwork to succeed, and everyone should participate daily. But kids aren’t born knowing how to help, and this is a trained and reinforced skill. By being appreciative, you are likely to reinforce a repeat performance. Also, it’s an excellent model for thankfulness, which hopefully will be reciprocated.
To pay or not to pay. There are arguments on both sides. Try to get the kids to see work as a value, and it will have value to everyone without a price tag attached. Do Mom and Dad get paid for doing work at home? Also, doing work together and sharing the burden is part of being a family. Adopted From http://parenting.thestateonline.com/
