Making sure that children learn responsibilities is very important; however, it is good to keep in mind the age of your child and the appropriateness of the responsibilities you give them. Children need responsibilities to build self-worth and appreciation.
How do I start giving out responsibilities to my child?
Start out small. Assign your child a small responsibility first and be sure to praise his/her good work as he/she completes the activity. A good starter chore might be to empty the garbage or set the table for dinner. Pet chores are a good first chore as well. Children enjoy feeding and watering their pets. Making this their daily responsibility will give them a sense of worth and encourage them to be responsible.
Believe it or not, having a chore or two will help your child not only at home, but at school. The development of responsibility will reflect in his/her schoolwork and will show as he/she begins to take action in his/her own success.
Be careful not to expect too much of your child. It is imperative that you do not set the bar too high for the child that he/she fails.
Keep things positive! Don't discourage them by putting down their work. Continue to encourage and support them in their efforts.
