Teaching Children Responsibility

Teaching Children Responsibility

When we consider the roles of a parent, a grandparent that is caring for grandchildren, (and before we go any further, hats off to the grandparents that have taken on this responsibility) and caregivers, we must consider all of the responsibility that is attached.

This list includes but is not limited to: making and attending doctor visits, dentist appointments, aftercare, after school activities, planning and preparing meals, assisting with homework, preparing for bed and then to begin the cycle the very next day.

It can be overwhelming! And this does not include the other duties you may be responsible for that include paying bills, mortgage, utilities, grocery shopping, laundry, etc. I am certain there are a host I've not listed.

Here's an idea

Let's consider engaging our children in the responsibility process. We can start out small. Such as giving or assigning them the following responsibilities:

Setting the table for meals
Taking out the trash
Making up their beds (Even if it's just pulling the covers up, until they can fully complete the job)
Folding clothes, starting with folding towels, this will build their confidence. Plus some people find folding towels therapeutic.)
Washing dishes

Remember The Following

Be patient, there is a great chance the children won't buy into being responsible. (I can literally see one of our mentee's responses in my head now, asking, "Well, why do I have to make the bed up if I'm just going to get right back in it?" (IFKYK)
Be encouraging. Tell them when they are doing a good job, also take more time if needed to share your expectations or how to complete a task.
Show your appreciation. Offer a special treat, snack or form of entertainment.
Make it a family event. Have each member help the other with their responsibility. This creates a closeness and time to share in the adventures of the day.

Remember, even the smallest help can make the difference in our busy and hectic schedules.

Teaching our children the importance of being responsible now will help to serve in preparing them for a great future.

Feel free to comment on your experience and tips in teaching children responsibility.

Picture credit- NoRevisions@Unsplash.com

2 Comments

Nov 19, 2024, 12:21:11 PM

Barbara Young - Thanks Daneisha!

Oct 30, 2024, 7:35:06 PM

Daneisha Armstrong - I love this article! Thank you for the tips.

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