Parenting tips: Encouraging children to do chores

Many parents and carers dream of the day when their child willingly helps around the house without complaining.

In reality, getting kids to do chores can be a challenge. With some simple strategies, parents and carers can encourage children to cooperate with household tasks while also teaching them valuable life skills like responsibility, perseverance, and problem-solving. Plus, pitching in fosters empathy and gives kids a sense of accomplishment.

Here are some expert tips from the Triple P Positive Parenting Program.

Tips for encouraging kids to do chores

• Plan ahead and have realistic expectations. Before chatting with your child, decide what tasks are needed, and what your child could do independently, or with a little help. Be realistic about what they’re able to do and keep in mind that it may take some time for them to learn how to do the job.

• Involve the whole family. Instead of giving instructions in the moment, try discussing expectations when everyone is calm and rested - If you ask a grumpy, tired (or hungry!) child to help with household chores, they're likely to say no. Let kids help decide which tasks they’d like to do and frame chores as “contributions” to the home rather than “work” to make them feel like part of the family effort.

• Start small. Breaking tasks into smaller steps makes them less overwhelming. Try gradually introducing more complex tasks as your child grows. This may look like this: toddlers can put toys away, preschoolers can match socks, school-age kids can fold laundry, and teens can cook a meal or wash the car.

• Notice and praise. Praise your child’s efforts and reward progress with simple yet effective things such as stickers or a fun family activity. This encourages kids to keep contributing and builds their self-esteem.

It’s important to give kids the opportunity to help when they’re ready, show them how, and allow them the space and time to try. There will be mess, splashes, dust, and dishes stacked in a not-so-ideal way! Participation is what really matters, not perfection.

For more proven strategies to raise capable, cooperative kids, check out Triple P’s free online parenting programs at triplep-parenting.net.au