Parenting Our Kids

Giving Time - Teaching Skills for Life

Chores Teach Responsibility

by Erica R.
(Maryland)

When I was a kid, I had chores. I think my parents mainly gave us these tasks to teach us about responsibility. When I was 6-7 years old, I had to set the table and put the cloth napkins in the laundry hamper after meals. When I got older, chores included feeding our pets, walking our dogs after school and folding laundry. Some of my friends also had household responsibilities, and I don't really remember thinking much about who was and who was not expected to help out at home.

My own children also set the table for mealtimes and feed our cat. They do get paid minimally for these chores (25 cents each day) but they are also expected to do other things around the house -- for which they don't get paid. These tasks include putting their dirty clothing in the appropriate places and cleaning up their toys and games. I believe this teaches them to be independent.