Parents often live with the belief that their duties entail ensuring their child is as happy, comfortable and as well-taken care of as they can be. This gives parents a sense of purpose when it comes to the upbringing of their children and they strive tirelessly to ensure that that their child wants for nothing and always has access to whatever they need.
The intention of this parenting mindset comes from a good place. However, children who are not taught from a young age to take care of themselves or help around the house can often grow up to be maladjusted adults. There is a stark difference between adults who have developed in a household that shares duties and chores and adults who have not learnt to share the burden of household tasks. There are many benefits from raising children in a household that shares the load amongst all its members.
To begin with, parents must realize that their children will move out of the house at some point in their lives. Be it for college or later in life to start a family of their own. In college especially, children who have not had any experience with household tasks will find it exceptionally difficult to adjust and take care of themselves. The act of sharing tasks at home also makes it easier for children to share their space later in life – be it with a roommate or a partner.
Sharing responsibilities within the family also helps develop a sense of discipline. Children are made to understand at a young age, the importance of taking responsibility for tasks that have been given to them. Rather than shunning their duties, they will learn to rework their days to ensure they can have fun and also complete the work they are assigned.
Children will also understand the concept of being held accountable when they do not complete their work. This will stem from a sense of understanding that they are a part of a larger community which is the family. These habits will, in turn, be inculcated into their own families when they are older.
Ensure your children are a part of the decision-making process while creating a chore chart. Their chore can be something as small as putting away their own toys are tidying up their rooms. It could also involve helping their parents set the table or clear it up after meals.