Parenting can be tedious! Sometimes it can be hard to know how you can get everything done. So, this is the time to involve children in doing household chores and there is no way to simplify the way this can be done. Unfortunately, there is no magic potion!
There a few steps you can follow and children will enjoy helping you rather than feeling that it is a punishment for them. When children are involved in household chores, they feel a sense of belonging and responsibility. They feel that they are part of a team and are contributing, just as they would do for society when they grow up.
Doing chores can be a special family time, full of fun. These steps will help you make it easier:
Simple tasks: When children are young, give them simple tasks. Doing dusting around the house, folding dry clothes, or pulling them out of the drier. Throwing garbage in the bin, turning off the lights in the house when not needed, picking up napkins after meals, and so on. Keep things simple and make sure children can handle them. The focus here is to give them responsibility; they are not going to replace you. So go easy on them.
Age-appropriate tasks: Younger children must get simpler tasks but give an older child something that involves problem-solving or effort. Let them set or clear the table, clean the floor, wash dishes, take out the rubbish or do the laundry. They can also help to water plants and even take care of the plants by trimming
Visual Chore list: Allow children to decide which chores they would like to do and then ensure that these are written and displayed where everyone can see them. When they accomplish a task, show them appreciation and that you really value their contribution to the family.
Timings: Allow children to decide when they will do their chores that day or that week. This means that it won’t encroach on their playtime or other activities as that will only create rebellion. This helps to create a dynamic of co-operation.
Get everyone involved: When you give children a responsibility it does not mean you will sit and watch. Be there with them and participate with them. When you do chores together this is going to be your special family time. You can make it playful and enjoyable.
Appreciate: As mentioned before, whenever a child finishes their task, make sure you appreciate the effort and the intention even if there is a small error here and there. Show your love and care, do not just dictate how things should be done or that they should be done to your standard. Also, do not let children feel household chores are just a punishment. Help them accept their responsibilities.
At Full Circle Hypnotherapy, we help mums who are at their wits end because their children refuse to listen to them and are constantly having melt downs. Often mums are also filled with feelings of failure, guilt and shame. Our hypnotherapists in Manchester have two decades worth of experience in working with parents and guiding with parenting responsibilities.
If you are looking for a parenting guide, visit https://www.fullcirclehypnotherapy.co.uk
