How to Tell if Your Child Is Ready for Responsibility

What if people think you are a bad parent for putting them to work before they are 15? So many questions boggle your mind it is hard to keep a clear head to think.

The age choice to start administering more responsibility to children varies from parent to parent. Normally though it is around 5 years old. Start small and work your way up to bigger chores. Don’t overload them with chores to. 1 or 2 chores a week is sufficient enough until they can handle more.

For children around 5, you can give them household chores to do. Have them sweep the kitchen floor or help you put away your dishes. Always remember to tell them what a great job they are doing and be sure to give them some type of reward for a job well done.

Pets are a great way to start off responsibility on kids. Have them start feeding the animal or taking the family dog for walks. Once they do this for 3 weeks straight, without being reminded to do it, then you know they are ready for more responsibility.

If you have a garden or any flowers then have your child help you tend to it. Show them what weeds look like, and have them help you weed your gardens. It doesn’t matter if they only get two weeds pulled from the ground. What matters is that they are trying. If you think that might be too big of a job for your child than have them help you water the flowers or pick the dead leaves off the plants.

You can also involve your toddler if they feel left out. If you have a 3 or 4 year old help them to contribute. Have them help you with minimal tasks. Start teaching them to pick up their toys and put them away. Have them help you clear the table and throw the small pieces of trash in the garbage can. You can even tell them it is their “chore.” This way when they see their older brother or sister doing their chores they will feel just as special.

Always reward your child at the end of the day or the end of the week for doing their chores. This will show them that helping out and working hard can work in their favor. Give them an allowance. Even $5 will show your gratitude and will let them know that you appreciate the work they do. No matter how small it is.

If you are having your child contribute to the household in some way, than they are learning some type of responsibility. It is a great way to set them up for the future and help them on the path to good learning.