We decided to start chores with our kids, and give them an allowance to go with it. When we started, we had a set amount they earned each week, but we would take 50 cents away each time they didn’t do a job. Our son decided that he would determine whether he did the job based on how much he lost if hhe didn’t complete it. He would also ask for more money if we asked him to do anything else. So we changed our system.
Assigning chores with children is a great way to teach them the value of work and belonging to a family. In the summer when school is out, we give our children an allowance with the chores and a chore chart with specific jobs each day. During the school year, we take away the chore chart and the allowance, but they are still required to help out around the house when asked. We explain that helping out with the house is part of being a family.
Other families handle chores in different ways. Each family is different, and the children in the family are different as well. It is important to find a system that works with you and your kids, and is easy to manage. No one wants to spend all day harassing their kids to get their work done. And in the real work, a boss wouldn’t do this either, they would lose their job.
Starting chores is a good way to prepare your children for life. It gives them a sense of purpose and accomplishment, shows the importance of working together as a family, and teaches them that work can be rewarding. Kids are never too young to start with age appropriate jobs.
Mike Sipes is the owner and operator of