After dealing with so much resistance from my kids when it comes to doing additional chores, I think I've come up with a method that works. My kids do have their regular daily chores, but I've had problems getting them motivated (and arguments over "fairness") over helping out with other things around the house. So this is what I came up with. I wrote down the chores on pieces of paper (i.e., sweeping, vacuuming, cleaning bathroom sinks, folding laundry, etc.). I also included a "free choice" paper where they could choose from the chores needing to be done. Everyone picks a chore (eyes closed) out of a hat. If it's the same one they did the day before they're free to put it back in the hat and choose again. So far it's working and I'm enjoying a little less stress in the house.
Lattemom is the mother of three energetic kids ages 6, 8 & 12 and a discussion leader for arizonamoms.com.
that's a good system, but I
that's a good system, but I would adda "Get out of chores" to the hat.
That way, they'll be more eager to pull a chore if they realize that there is a possibility that they will get out of it.
Sort of like a "get out of jail free" card.
And since it's random, there's not "fairness" debate.
I love that idea! I'm off
I love that idea! I'm off to add it to the chores right now. Thanks!!
Lattemom is the mother of three energetic kids ages 6, 8 & 12 and a discussion leader for arizonamoms.com.
What a great system! I'll
What a great system!
I'll have to try that home. My kids are usually good about chores, but I have to constantly remind them to complete. When they complain, I point out that while they were having fun outside playing, or on the computer, I was inside doing dishes, cooking, or cleaning. After a few gentle reminders, they get the point and help out.
A fun thing to add would be a gameboard for each kid that they make (similar to the reading program) where every so many spaces they get a reward (perhaps a "free day").
The best way to predict your future is to create it. ~Peter Drucker
Life2short, I like that game
Life2short, I like that game board idea, too. My kids love the reading program - it really motivates them to read. I bet this would work for chores, too. Whatever motivates them and gets the job done, right?
Lattemom is the mother of three energetic kids ages 6, 8 & 12 and a discussion leader for arizonamoms.com.