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Building a Better World
One Pair of Socks at a Time
By Kristine Berggren
Older children may begin to balk at helping with chores or cleaning their rooms. But holding them to expectations sends the message that their participation is valuable and necessary.
Offering an allowance – whether connected to household chores or not – helps them understand budgeting and delayed gratification (if I buy the ice cream cone now it will take me longer to save for the computer game I have my eye on). Managing their own money grooms realistic consumers and instills financial responsibility. This is especially important when children are expected to save a portion for college or charitable donations.
Discussions about independence between older teenagers and their parents may include more complex topics like dating, driving, curfews or college visits. Many parents continue to link privilege with responsibility. For instance, using the family car might depend on getting good grades or chipping in for car insurance.
- Throw things in trash.
- Pick up and put away toys with help.
- Wipe up spills.
- Put dirty clothes in hamper.
- Hang clothes on hooks.
- Pour from small pitcher kept on low shelf in refrigerator.
- Hand dishes from dishwasher to parent.
- Help set and clear table.
