Family Tips: Young Children and Household Chores
Young children often like to help out and be involved with what Mum and Dad are doing. This is great but there’s a downside. Their help can sometimes turn a half hour job into a three-hour project, with a large mess to clean up afterwards! Here we share tips on young children and household chores and how to make it work.
Time is in short supply for parents. It’s easy to say, “It’s okay honey, Mum can do this,” or “This is too hard for you love, I’ll do it.”
The simple fact is, it’s often much easier and quicker to get household chores done without help from your young children.
However, helping out with household chores builds confidence and self-esteem. This has a startling impact on children’s success in later life.
Why is Participating in Household Chores Important for Young Children?
Studies are beginning to show that children who have participated in household chores from a young age (3-4) are more likely to complete their education. It also helps them get a good start on a career, develop positive adult relationships and avoid the use of drugs.
In fact, young children’s involvement in chores may be deemed more important to their future success than any other factor – including IQ.
There’s a key reason giving children chores can have such a big impact on their development. When you let your child help out with simple chores, you send a powerful message that you believe they’re capable.
This belief boosts their confidence and helps young children feel good about themselves. They develop self belief and self determination.
How To Make it Work
All that’s really required is patience!
Be sure to give your child age appropriate chores. Let them do each one to the best of their ability, giving them the time they need.
Avoid criticising or correcting them. And don’t take over because you know you can get it done quicker or do it better.
It’s simple – but it does take some patience and a commitment to the benefits.
We hope these tips will help you support your young children with getting involved in household chores