It's the middle of summer and your kids have been home for about a month now. At this point, the words "Mom, I'm bored" are constantly ringing in your ears.
We often contemplate involving our children in our daily chores - to keep them busy, to give us an extra hand, to teach them about responsibility and to introduce them to something they will be doing for the rest of their lives. But, even more often, we end up talking ourselves down. They're still too young. They won't take it seriously. It's just quicker to do it myself.
If the scenario above sounds familiar to you, check out some of the tips and ideas below on how to get your kids involved with chores in a FUN way this summer. You can thank us later!
Laundry Chores
There's no reason that an elementary aged child shouldn't be able to load the washer and dryer, then fold clothes and deliver them to their respective owners within the household. You can make doing the laundry fun for young children by sorting darks and lights and teaching them how to fold clothes the right way by following a pattern.
Making Lunch
Have your kids help out with making lunch by giving them the choice of what they would like to eat. In their minds, this chore will be done on their own accord. Here, kids will have a great opportunity to learn best spreading practices for butter or peanut butter & jelly, how to create a balanced meal, and all about different kitchen utensils. Afterwards, have them wash their own dishes. For older children, consider having them help you cook at the stove or in the oven. They will be able to pick up the basics of cooking all the while learning how to use the stove and oven.
Taking Care of Pets
By having your children take a large role in caring for the family pets, you will be teaching them a great deal of responsibility and care for others. Kids can learn a bit about measuring when scooping out 1/2 cup of dog food. They will be taught to be mindful of others' well-being aside from themselves if they are made responsible for taking the pet out to do its duties, or to make sure the water bowl is filled. Cleaning any type of pet mess - whether it be an accident in the home, a cat's litter box, or bird or rabbit droppings - is the perfect job for a youngster, as kids LOVE gross things. But, if it's too gross, or the stain is too serious, don't hesitate to call your local carpet cleaner.
Mowing the Lawn
It's a sin if any family with young children are spending money on lawn care services. When I was a kid, I enjoyed riding on the lawnmower and cutting my parents' lawn because it was the closest thing to driving a car at the time - which was so cool, yet so far off into my future. Young children can pick up sticks in the yard or help with weeding, while older ones should grow comfortable with the lawnmower at a slow speed. Kids should also help with the maintenance of these machines, as these skills will prove valuable once they are actually driving - the importance of filling it with gas, conducting oil changes, etc.
Above are a couple ideas you can begin implementing right away in your home. Chores are rarely ever fun - but at this point, your kids don't need to know that. Feel free to share any tips or ideas on how you get your young ones involved below!
