The Preschooler

Chores

In getting ready for kindergarten, it is important that children learn how to be responsible for their own belongings as well as items that the entire class uses together, such as art supplies, toys, and the classroom itself. In order to help children prepare for these new responsibilities, we, as parents, can help build these skills by having our children complete daily chores.

There are many different approaches when it comes to beginning a chore regimen in the home. Some parents like to use a rewards system such as stickers, small toys that are earned, or an allowance (although it is recommended to wait on introducing allowances until they have had more experience with money and its value). Others prefer to simply use the gratification that comes with correctly completing a task to be the reward. Which option you choose to use is completely up to your family.

Young children generally need some visual guidance when it comes to chores. Charts that can be filled in as each task is completed are always a good place to start. Pictures enable the child to see what needs to be done and then complete the task without having to ask an adult to read the chart to him. It is also best to start with 2 or 3 chores and then add more later as the child gets more accustomed to the chores with which he started. Be sure to include tasks that involve his personal items, such as making his bed, as well as chores that benefit the entire family, such as setting the table.

The first few times through, help your child use the chart to identify the chore, and then complete the task with your child. Be sure to complete the chart immediately after the chore is completed so that he can see how fun it can be to be responsible!

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Written by BRWI Staff on April 6, 2009